When Every Contestant Wins

Daily Devotional – Monday, August 29, 2022
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
2 Timothy 4:8 (NKJV)

In his last will and testament, Alfred Nobel directed his administrators to set aside a fund to reward individuals or institutions that would excel in physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace. Indeed, many academicians, professionals and activists aspire to win the Nobel as a crown of their achievements.

I Have Finished the Race

Between 1901 and 2021, the Nobel Prize organization awarded 609 prizes and receptive funds to 975 individuals / institutions, some more than once. While no person can achieve anything worthwhile alone, only the individual that spearheads the achievement receives a Nobel Prize.

It is, therefore, unusual to have one race or competition where there are many winners and many prizes. As he approached his death, Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7).

The Crown of Righteousness

o Paul, Christianity is a spiritual battle (read Ephesians 6) and a race (read Hebrews 12). Conventionally, at the end of every battle or race, one winner receives a medal, a monetary reward and accolades.

Paul, too, expects a prize for winning the fight and the race. However, he is not the only one to receive the prize. He adds, “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8).

When Everyone Wins the Prize

All who accept Jesus are winners. They each receive eternal life and a crown. Jesus does not discriminate. He promises, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21).

If you feel like giving up on your spiritual journey, remember there is an unperishable prize waiting for you. Moreover, remember your fellow Christian is not your competitor. Help them and accept their help because all of us will receive the crown of life soon.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to overcome that I may receive my crown on that great day when You return to take me home.