Finishing Well
Paul set the example for us as the end of his life was eminent. One book I read said that he was in a little hut waiting for his execution. He could hear the boots of his executioners coming down the path. What was it like for him?
2 Timothy 4:7-8 says, “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.”
Today is a tribute to my friend Elliott Lovelace. He received his crown of righteousness a few days ago. Elliott was a part of my life all my life. He knew my parents before they were married. He was with them on their dates as they went door to door telling folks about the Lord.
He was a husband, father, grandfather, an evangelist, pastor, teacher, and a friend. His life exemplified the Lord, and his race was a testimony of God’s abounding grace. He had a great voice, and he and my mom frequently sang duets together.
What about you? Are you fighting the good fight of faith? I’m reading a book by Elizabeth Elliot. It is written at the beginning of her and Jim’s relationship. The Lord had them both wait. How did they wait? They continually offered up their unfulfilled longings as a well pleasing sacrifice to the Lord.
In this life we will have trials that severely test our faith. Yet, it is IN the testing that we draw nearer to the Lord. He alone becomes our focus and our hope. As we run our race, if we keep the Lord in laser-focus, we will confidently embrace every aspect of our suffering. We will finish well so that He is honored and glorified.
M's Creations 