PROSPECT is one thing – RETROSPECT is another. What can you say when you look back on a life in retrospect? Paul, the old apostle who had been through so much for the Lord, said these words (I read them again this morning during “coffee with the Lord”):
“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.” (2 Timothy 4.7-8)
Did you pick up on the images Paul used? Life as we live it today for the Lord is, first of all, much like a battle – a “fight”; It has the character of a “race” we run – a course we are called upon to complete; and finally, as Christians we have a trust – a stewardship – a “faith” we must keep! Believe me, I want to fulfill all three images with integrity and full effort!
As I look at Paul’s words though, he not only looks back and reflects in RETROSPECT (looking back on a life lived fully for the Lord) – he looks forward in PROSPECT (to God’s favor on “that day” – moving from the “today” of Christian service to “the eternal day” of heavenly reward)!
Just let it be said, I’d like Paul’s words one day to become truthfully mine! I’ve been around long enough to see some great old saints claim them truthfully as their own!! (Didn’t I hear Paul say…”and not only for me but all those who have loved His appearing”?)
Coffee With The Lord 