The victory prize

“I have done my best in the race, I have run the full distance, and I have kept the faith. And now there is waiting for me the victory prize of being put right with God.” (2 Tim. 4:7-8 GNT)

Have you ever watched the Special Olympics, where participants with various physical or mental challenges are celebrated and given beautiful medals at events? It’s not because of their actual skill set, but rather it's because of the love others have for them. In a similar way, that’s what the Bible passage above is saying as the apostle Paul speaks about finishing his race and about “being put right with God.” His victory prize was not based on his own merit but was given to him as a gift because of God’s love for him, see John 3:16. All Paul needed to do was to go the distance (not quit) and to keep the faith (fully trust) and the victory prize was given.

It’s exactly the same today!

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)

Therefore

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Gal. 6:9)