From:
Date: February 20, 2019
Subject: It's February 20; Good Morning Union
“I have fought the good fight…” 2 Timothy 4:7
Paul is writing what many believe to be his final letter at the end of his life. It’s interesting that he wrote it to his young mentor Timothy as if to be officially passing on the mantle of spiritual leadership. His confidence in the future is summarized in verse 8:
“So now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award me on that day-“ Talk about assurance of salvation! Paul had it! And he believed in it for everyone else too, as the verse continues, “and not only to me, but also to ALL who have longed for his appearing.” So what is it that gave Paul this much confidence and assurance? Three things in my verse today summarize it:
It’s not about winning, it’s about finishing—hanging in there to the end, faithfully persevering against all odds. I summarize Paul’s summary as, “faithfully following the Father to the finish!” Sometimes it feels like a fight because the devil deals destructively in my journey; sometimes it takes that little extra deep down inside like coming to the end of a marathon an seeing that you are very close to a PR so you push a little harder to the finish line and not give up; but always it’s about trusting the God who promises that the reward is secure as long as I “keep the faith.”
It’s not always easy but the reward is sure to the faithful fighter and finisher!
Have a great day committing to “faithfully following the Father to the finish,”
Pastor Rich
Quote for the day: "In the kingdom of God, as long as you're still fighting, you're winning. God doesn't hand out medals for performance. He hands out crowns for perseverance." Holley Gerth
PS Enjoy the snow day; play in the snow some, but study more!! This is your chance to play catch up.
PPS Service Challenge Day 20 3 Words
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12
Today's Challenge is to simply tell someone you love them. It’s free, and its meaningful. You can tell a family member, friend or significant other. Just keep it real!
You know the drill!
https://goo.gl/forms/