“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6-8, NIV)
What awaits you after this life?
In his final days on this earth, Paul — writing to his protege Timothy — declares that “the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day” awaits him.
The trials of this life are many, and often cause us great pain and suffering. However, do not despair. Fight the good fight, meaning: Draw on all of your resources — in heaven and on earth — to resist the evil one and his schemes. Stay in the race to the finish, meaning: Don’t quit — ever. Keep the faith, meaning: Remember that God, through Jesus, has assured victory at the end of all things — even if it doesn’t look that way now.
The rewards written of by Paul are not only his — but ours, as well, if we wait in longing for His appearing.
Daily Encouragement 