Suppose we were in the crowd cheering on the runners in the Boston Marathon. Applause erupts when the first runner breaks the ribbon and crosses the finish line. But as time goes on, more and more finish the race, some barely making it. But with each runner that crosses, loud cheers can be heard from the sidelines. Just finishing the race is a huge accomplishment and worthy of accolades. But is that true of this spiritual race? Are we supposed to finish strong or weak? Is it honorable to just finish the race? I believe Paul addresses this to his young protégé, Timothy. Paul knew his time on earth was coming to an end, but Timothy still had many years left. So, Paul tells Timothy of the importance of finishing strong. And he describes what that looks like by using his life as an example.
Here’s the thing… every Christian will cross that finish line. But the question we should ask ourselves is this… Will I finish strong or weak? It’s important we have the right answer because it’s apparent from Scripture that the weak crossers do not get heavenly applause. Therefore, let’s break down this passage and look at words that should describe our life if we want to finish strong:
Devotion! Paul says, “My life has already been poured out as an offering to God.” This phrase is translated “drink-offering” in other versions of the Bible. The drink-offering holds deep symbolic meaning within the context of Israelite worship. It represents the outpouring of a life fully committed and devoted to Jesus. This is a life completely surrendered to God. And this is the foundation of everything else.
Warrior! Paul says, “I have fought the good fight!” Like Paul, we need to be great warriors… always fighting for truth, fighting for biblical values, fighting for the church, fighting for those on the front lines of this grueling war. We need to continue to fight for the sanctity of marriage, the family, the unborn, the ones unjustly accused. Let your voice be heard. Step up to the plate and fight hard.
Finisher! Paul says, “I have finished the race!” In other words, don’t give up. Don’t walk away. Don’t retire to your rocking chair. There is no retirement when it comes to this spiritual race. No matter how old you are, finish that race. I think of Pat Boone, who is in his 90’s, and he’s still using his voice for the Kingdom of God.
Consistent! Paul says, “I have remained faithful!” Life can throw us curveballs, but we are to remain faithful to God, His Word, and His mission. ALWAYS stand on truth even if you’re alone. Paul never wavered in his faithfulness to God’s Word, even when he was maliciously attacked and put in prison. Even when his life was threatened. Stay on that narrow road, never drifting. Consistency will gain heaven’s applause for sure.
Paul goes on in this passage to say that by living this way, we will “eagerly look forward to his appearing” (2 Timoty 4:8). This is truly how to finish strong. And the best news is that there will be a reward (a crown) for these finishers called “the crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8). So, let’s strive to not only finish this race, but to finish strong.