Discovery Journal

Sheila W. - June 28, 2010

Scripture:

2 Tim. 4:7 & 8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store 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 longed for his appearing.

Observation:

From these two verses and the one just before it, Paul seems to know that his demise is close at hand. He's imprisoned in a dungeon in chains, still able to write (or dictate to Luke) words of instruction to Timothy; hence, to us.

Application:

Paul is definitely a man of God I admire--spiritual, powerful, brave, humble, intelligent, and passionate. To read his writings when he's in a filthy dungeon breaks my heart, and yet here he is, pouring himself out like crazy! To be so Godly! These couple of verses make me think about how Paul knew who he was in Christ. Almost all Christians I know are always putting themselves down, being humble, modest, never being able to say "I'm doing a lot of good stuff for the Kingdom." It's like we're all afraid that someone's going to think (or even God's going to think) that we're conceited and prideful. Reading this tells me that it's just a matter of speaking the truth and knowing who you are. That takes a lot of guts.

Prayer:

Father, You know I never want to draw attention to myself and take away from Your kingdom, and yet, I want to speak the truth always. Teach me, Father, to be brave, no matter what the circumstances, and let truth flow out of me, no matter what others think. I know that will help establish Your kingdom here, and I want to do that so badly. Thank You for loving me and trusting me. Help me be worthy of Your calling on my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.