Finishing the Race
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7
We are in a spiritual battle and Satan is fighting for our souls. He has used the world to destroy Christians throughout Biblical history, but today he is using his demons and is preparing for one final attack against God’s people. We are to remain faithful to the Lord and finish the race no matter how the world responds to us. It will take courage and faith in the Lord to fight the good fight.
But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars–they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. (Revelation 21:8) This verse starts with the cowardly because in the last days we will need courage from God to live for Christ. Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold. “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:12-14) As this world becomes more lawless and evil don’t let your love grow cold, but fight the good fight, keep the faith, and finish the race.
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18) We can strongly finish the race and endure whatever Satan places in our path only if we see heaven as our home. If we see this world as our home we will be very disappointed because this sinful world is under God’s wrath and will eventually be destroyed. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. (1 Corinthians 15:19) We run the race in the world and the finish line is in heaven.
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. (1Timothy 4:8) Paul finished strongly, having the courage to die as a martyr for Christ because he knew the Lord would reward him with the crown of righteousness. Remain faithful and courageous and complete the race. Christ is waiting to reward you with the crown of righteousness.
Today, walk with the Lord knowing you are in a race. It is an endurance race that continues until you step into eternity. The Lord will be with you and promises to carry you through the race. He will give you the wisdom and strength to overcome the world through his power and love. Realize that you have the power of God living in you through the Holy Spirit.
Let’s pray: Lord, give me the strength to fight the good fight and the faith to overcome the world today. Fill my heart with your love and wisdom so I can focus on being light for Christ instead of focusing on myself. Lord, help me to be free in Christ, and live for your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.