THE RACE FOR THE CROWN (PART 2 OF 6)

18th NOVEMBER 2022

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8

At the point we decided to follow Jesus in obedience and sacrifice, we have also chosen to drink from His cup of suffering; NOT to suffer and die as He did for us, BUT because of the mystery of His death and resurrection, to gain power to overcome suffering and death on our journey through life to the celestial city. When you become a disciple of Christ, you are expected to follow him in obedience and sacrifice to develop your faith to maturity and perfection. Therefore, God will commence the supernatural work of transforming you into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ, who was and is perfect. (Ref: 8:29.), As you mature in faith, God uses tests and trials to develop your character, especially in the areas of your weaknesses, which constantly falls upon the fire crucible for refinement so you can become an image of Christ.

Beloved, Like Paul, we are expected to fight the good fight and run the full course in strict obedience to the word of God amidst tests and trials. We are not matured Christians or Christlike if we are yet to run the full course of the race that leads to complete alignment with Christ! Therefore, step by step, the image of Christ is made to unfold in us as we periodically drink His cup, Not the cup of suffering, but the cup of  victory! Paul tells us that whatever happens to us, God knows about it; He permitted it, and it is necessary at this time. But not too long from now, victory is assured!  

PRAYER

Father in the name of Jesus Christ, I thank you for this infirmity and travails; I ask for thy grace to overcome the vicissitudes confronting me. Father, I know that you have permitted this trial to occur. Therefore, I purge myself of all moral weaknesses, and I declare that the power of the Holy Spirit sanctifies me. I bear no grudge against anyone. I freely forgive all those who wronged me. Therefore, I am free from every bondage of ill health, emotional trauma and psychological prison. From this moment onward, I overcome every inner and outer void standing between me and the fulfilment of your plan and purpose for me. I am victorious, and I remain a conqueror. Thank you, father, for giving me a new life. AMEN.

FURTHER READING:  Romans 5:3–5; Hebrews 5:8; Matthew 19:21.