2 Timothy 4:7
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Knowing that this will be his final imprisonment, and his departure is at hand, Paul looks back over his life with Christ. His word choices fought, finished, and kept give a nod to the Olympic games of his day. Paul’s athletic metaphor gives us three important insights to carefully consider.
First, Paul reminds us that we struggle against an adversary in an invisible and spiritual arena. However, Paul declares that he has wrestled, struggled hard, and overcome. It was a “good fight” for the highest cause. Secondly, Paul says, “I have finished my race.” He faithfully kept his eyes on the goal of winning this Christian race and completed his course. In the end, he could say, “I have kept the faith.”
What boldness is ours as believers in Jesus Christ!
In the ancient Olympics, there were rules to be obeyed. After winning an event, an examination was conducted to see if the winner had won lawfully. Second Timothy 2:5 tells us, “…if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”
Paul’s declaration, “I have,” expresses complete confidence that he had every reason to expect the prize. What boldness is ours as believers in Jesus Christ! He has given us all we need and He trains us well. How so? Through the power of the Word of God and the working of His Spirit.
Are you winning the race of faith? Are you fighting the good fight with all your heart, soul, and body? I encourage you to examine yourself. May you keep your sights fixed on the finish line in anticipation of receiving the prize!
Awaiting His return,
– Pastor Jack
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