Thursday, January 24, 2008

Run the Race

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

There is so much that would pull Paul away from the "race" - he went through persecutions, he would defend the faith against false gospels, and he would go through difficult church issues, all of which could have torn him away from the race. However, he would live out his ministry with faithfulness, passion and courage. As I recalled 2 Timothy 4:7, I was struck by how powerful these words really are in their context. It is not an easy task to finish the race for Paul or for any believer. How many have you known who have "dropped out"? Many? How many times do you hear - well, they made a decision but I don't know anymore.

Paul writes to Timothy and reminds him - it is a fight, it is a race, you must keep the faith. Simple words but profound truth. What was it for Paul that kept him? Verse 8: 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. Paul longed for God and His appearing.

Fight the fight. Run the race. Keep the faith. One day, one day you will see Him.