Crown of Righteousness

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Tim 4:3-8

Life is tough right now. Families are under stress. So are marriages, careers, and faith. The world around us is shaking. Foundations not built on Jesus Christ are shifting in the sand. Cracks are appearing.

Life for Paul was tough. He had just faced Emperor Nero. The Roman districts were steeped in fear, uncertainty, and tyranny. Paul knew his time of death was near. Yet, Paul looked beyond his environment to the promises of Christ. It was the appearing of Christ that Paul looked for, longed for, and hoped for. Paul also longed for his crown of righteousness, one of the many crowns God would give him. An eternal crown and gift given him by a Savior who’s blood… cleansed him of his sins.

Dear Christian know this… your sins are forgiven, your robes are white, you are clothed with Christ’s righteousness. Until his return… fight the good fight, finish your race, keep the faith and look for, long for the appearance of his coming.