Henceforth there is laid up 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 loved his appearing. – 2 Timothy 4:8
Movie makers and television producers seek to win an Oscar or Emmy. Football teams play to win the Superbowl and baseball players vie for the World Series and the trophies that come with victory. Students of all ages strive for academic, musical, or athletic awards. However, the rewards of this world mean nothing in the grand scheme of things.
The apostle Paul was nearing death. He had spent months in the Mamertine Prison in Rome – a dark dungeon with a hole in the roof through which food was dropped and water lowered to him. Only Luke had stayed to minister to him as he was able. It was in this discouraging environment that Paul looked with great anticipation to the crown of righteousness that awaited him, not necessarily for the work he had done, but for his faithfulness to the Gospel and countering false teachers and those who sought speakers who would tell them what they wanted to hear rather than the truth of God (2 Timothy 4:1-4).
The crown of righteousness awaits believers who love the Lord, seek to do His will, and look with anticipation to His appearing.
William Borden, burdened as a high school graduate to witness to Muslims in China, attended college and seminary. He was on his way to Asia when he contracted meningitis and died within a month, never accomplishing what he set out to do. In his, Bible were these words, “No reserves… No retreat… No regrets.” He was faithful, which is what the Lord desires of you!
In these turbulent times, pray that people in positions of authority will seek and be faithful to God’s direction.
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