FIGHT - FINISH - KEEP

Paul wrote these words near the end of his life ... 

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 

It is a deeply moving affirmation of his unwavering allegiance and unyielding love for Jesus Christ. He desired that Timothy be emboldened by this testimony and encouraged to trust the Lord when the road gets rough. 

The three statements in the verse set a goal for us. We must not falter or fade as we approach the end of our spiritual journey.

1. The good fight ... This is a stark reminder that we are soldiers in a battle against evil in the world (and in our own lives also). Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:12)

2. The course ... The spiritual journey is considered a race to be finished, regardless of the obstacles in our way. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Hebrews 12:1-2)

3. The faith ... We are to steadfastly guard our new life in Christ, no matter what peril seeks to derail it.  For this reason, I also suffer these things; nevertheless, I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. (2 Timothy 1:12)

Though Paul's declaration seemed to be phrased in such a way as to bring glory to himself (using the word 'I' throughout the verse) ... it must not be received as such. He revealed the true source of his success when he testified to the following ...

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Paul fulfilled all that Jesus had charged and empowered him to do. He possessed a remarkable sense of fulfillment as His servant. 

May we come to the end of our walk of faith with similar contentment.