September 01 2011, 7:59 am | David Hudson
Several years ago I was going through an extremely difficult trial and was wondering if I had missed God's calling on my life. Nothing gave me more encouragement than the simple verse, "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me" (Psalm 57:2). God is sovereign. Nothing is more powerful than someone who is Most High: "Our God is in the heavens; He does all He pleases" (Psalm 115:3). "I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted" (Job 42:2).
I am so thankful for the promises of Scripture. I don't know where I'd be without the Word of God and the rock-solid promises He has given us. This morning I am encouraged by God's inexorable promises of future crowns:
"Blessed is the man who has persevered under, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him" (James 1:12).
"As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up 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 loved His appearing." (II Timothy 4:5-8)
There will be crowns given on the Day of Judgment. And the standard is simple: do you love Jesus? Do you simply and truly love Him? Do you long for Him to come back so the long-distance relationship can end and you can finally see each other face to face?
That love is what compelled Paul to fight the good fight, finish his race, and keep faith in Jesus. It's not about the circumstances of my trials today. It's about whether or not I find God in them. And if I persevere and cling to my love relationship with Him, there will be a crown of life for me.
Father, thank You that on the days when I find my passion lacking and my desires strong for sinful escape, I can take courage in the fact that the chief of sinners had grace to fight, finish, and keep the faith of passionate love for You. Thank You that Your promises are absolutely trustworthy. Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit this morning and give me grace to be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill the ministry to which You have called me. Thank You that You will fulfill Your purposes for me. In the Most High name of Jesus, Amen.