Keeping the Faith

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (2Ti 4:7-8 KJV)

Paul recognizes the consequences of his constant battle with the enemy, but he is confident that he has “fought a good fight. “ He doesn’t say he won every skirmish. Instead, he held his ground and has not surrendered. We have fought a good fight when we are steadfast and refuse to surrender.

Having surveyed his ministry and his future prospects, Paul concludes that his ministry is coming to an end . . . he is confident that his work is complete. He doesn’t say he achieved all his plans and goals. Instead, he achieved God’s purpose to which he was called. Happy is the laborer who recognizes that his/her work is complete.

Paul knows he has been faithful. He doesn’t say that he has had no temptations to quit. He doesn’t say that he had a bed of roses. Instead, despite the persecutions and hardships associated with his ministry, Paul simply affirms, “I have kept the faith.” Oh, the confidence of faithfulness!

There is something comforting about the confidence of faithfulness to one’s purpose. What is the result? A crown of righteousness from the Righteous Judge, not only for Paul, but for all who are faithful and “love his appearing.”

Dear Father, thank you for the crown you have laid up for me. Empower us to be faithful and fight a good fight. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today in keeping the faith,