-December 20, 2024-
Good morning beloved, happy Friday,
“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 Timothy 4:8).
For Paul, the end of his life on earth was in sight. He triumphantly proclaimed, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). He knew he was going home to heaven where desired to be with the Lord.
Paul told the Philippians, “For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart to be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you” (Philippians 1:23). He loved the Lord’s coming so much because He the Lord so much. We should as well.
Paul served the Lord down to his last day on earth, his final breath. He left behind the greater part of the NT. Through the Holy Spirit, we have Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. I believe he wrote Hebrews as well.
He showed his dedication, devotion, and determination in preaching the gospel, teaching the Word, planting churches, discipling believers, and most of all being an example of Christ. His resume was long, his legacy was great.
Paul looked forward to receiving the crown of righteousness from the Lord Jesus Himself. Right down to the end he was an encourager. He wanted Timothy and all the saints to know that we who love Christ’s appearing will receive the crown of righteousness as well.
The crown of righteousness is perhaps the greatest of all the crowns. It spurs us on in hope of being in the Lord’s presence after living for the Lord and serving Him.
Have a blessed day awaiting His coming by serving for His glory. Stay and healthy.
Those who love the Lord’s coming will find the crown of righteousness very becoming.
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 