English
Scripture Summary
2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV
6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 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.
This Week's Memorize Scripture
2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV
6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 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.
Reflection on the Scripture:
When children establish their own families and careers, parents often breathe a sigh of relief and say, "Mission accomplished." Mothers preparing three meals a day can also say, "Mission accomplished." Reaching a weight-loss goal is another instance of saying, "Mission accomplished." Completing a given task allows one to joyfully declare success. People with clear goals experience the joy of "mission accomplished" every day—a joy that those without goals cannot understand. This lack of understanding is truly unfortunate. Even more tragic is setting the wrong goal, investing tremendous effort to achieve it, only to find that the result is not what was hoped for.This is something everyone must be cautious about because time cannot be reversed. The sooner one identifies the right goal, the less of the precious time God has given will be wasted.The Apostle Paul, knowing his time on earth was nearing its end, reflected on his life. From the day he was saved, he had been striving toward the goal God had given him. He often used the analogy of running a race to describe his life and of fighting a battle to illustrate the obstacles encountered on the way to his goal. Paul declared, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:13-14).Paul confidently proclaimed, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). This statement reflects his focus, dedication, and wholehearted commitment to the goal God set for him. Based on God’s character, Paul was assured he would receive his reward. This was the purpose for which his new, reborn life strived—like a runner aiming for victory in a race. Now nearing the finish line, he was certain he would receive the crown God had prepared for him.To encourage all believers to live with the same purpose, Paul said that God would also reward others who share his determination and faith (2 Timothy 4:8). Modern martyr and missionary Jim Elliott similarly stated, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."Do you have a goal? Are you certain it is the right one? Why? What do you think God’s evaluation of you will be? Will you receive a reward? Why or why not?
Response through Hymn:
Jesus, my best love thou art
https://youtu.be/wgaCaGfKcG4?si=o6lIVI_8ZG1U-5Ta
使命
今要主自己
I would rather have Jesus