10.06. 13

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." (2 Timothy 4:7 –8)This is yet another gem in the treasure house of the holy Scriptures. Its brilliance illuminates truths that are hard to be found by this world's standards. Here the Spirit of the Living Word instructs all God's favored children to fight for their faith. Keep all its precepts, doctrine and statutes. The world fights for "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life." (1 John 2:16) Our fight is to please God; for "the just shall live by faith." ( Habakkuk 2:4 ) If you do this willingly, to the end of your life, a crown will be reserved for you. This crown will be awarded on judgment day; to these words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." ( Matthew 25:21)The key that unlocks the whole thing is love. The rule of thumb is Jesus. When Jesus asked Peter, "loveth thou me more than these?" ( John 2!:15) I have to ask myself, how much do I really love Jesus? Enough to have him appear in every area of my present life? You be the judge. Praise the Lord!