2 Timothy 4:8
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.
I just read a review on a new book titled The Truth About Leadership. The authors devote a chapter to ten concepts, one of which is “Focusing on the Future Sets Leaders Apart.” The writers say, “You have to be forward looking; it’s the quality that most differentiates leaders from individual contributors.” I totally agree with that concept. But as I look at today’s passage, I find an interesting and important spiritual principle—“Looking backward from the future puts the present in the right perspective.”
The Apostle Paul looked forward to the day when he would be awarded a crown of righteousness by the Lord himself. It’s as if he pictures Jesus walking up to him and placing the crown on his head. He longs not only for that day, but for that award and the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!” So with that ultimate goal always on his mind, Paul looked back from what was in store for him and allowed that desire to determine the decisions and actions of his present. Paul did not want to lose his crown!
I want that crown too. Don’t you? It belongs to “all who have longed for his appearing.” This is not the description of a flippant Christian life. The crown is not for those who could “take or leave” a life of obedience. The crown will not be placed on the head of those who bow before money, jobs, homes, and pleasure. The crown is for those who follow hard after God. Quite honestly, some people want the future crown without the daily obedience and sacrifice. But…some will find too late…it just doesn’t work that way.
Father, put in our minds your desired future for us. Burn it into our hearts. Then give us the strength and desire to go after it with all of our strength. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Today on The Journey: Possession Obsession – Part 2 (Sermon on the Mount). Listen to today’s broadcast!
Check out Ron’s new book–Ignite.
Tags: 2 Timothy, actions, awarded, crown, day, decisions, desire, determine, Devotional, follow, goal, God, hard, Hello my name is God, Jehovah-Tsidkenu, look forward, Lord, mind, Paul, present, righteousness, Ron Moore, Sermon Series, The Bible Chapel, ultimate
