FIGHT, FINISH, KEEP

Shortly before he was martyred, Paul penned this moving testimony as he reflected on his apostleship ...  

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

The Good Fight -

Paul was relentless. He knew who his enemy was and refused to succumb to the forces of evil ... For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)

As followers of Christ, we're considered soldiers in the same ongoing battle. It is the reason we are admonished to ... put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Ephesians 6:13)

The Race -

Paul had accomplished what he set forth to do ... I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - testifying to the good news of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)

We are to see our spiritual pilgimage as a test of endurance ... Lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with perseverance the race that is set before us. (Hebrews 12:1)

The Faith -

Paul was unwavering in his commitment to the Gospel and told Timothy to protect it ... Guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge. (1 Timothy 6:20)

Our relationship with the Lord depends on it ... Without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Even though Paul knew that his death was near, he had no regrets. As believers in Christ, we should do as he did: 'Fight the good fight', 'Finish the race', and 'Keep the faith'. 

Serve the Lord with all your heart.