The third crown mentioned in Scripture is the crown of righteousness. Paul writes: ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord…will give to me on that Day, and…also to all who have loved His appearing’ (vv. 7-8 NKJV). A pastor amplifies this: ‘The book of 2 Timothy represents the last known writing of the apostle Paul, and we have reason to believe he was beheaded shortly after writing these words. But rather than dreading death, he was looking forward to the Second Coming. He was…content with his record of service for the Master. Paul’s use of the athletic metaphor here is especially descriptive of the life of the believer because it describes struggle, endurance, discipline, and final victory. The Crown of Righteousness is reserved for those who have a longing for the Lord Jesus and who watch for Jesus to come back.’ Writing to Titus, Paul speaks of ‘looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ’ (Titus 2:13 NKJV). The pastor continues: ‘Psychologists tell us that anticipation…is an emotion with marvellous healing powers. People who are snowbound sustain their spirits by anticipating the longer days of spring and summer. Couples…separated by military deployment stay sane by anticipating their reunion…Brides and grooms are eager for their wedding day.’ As a Christian, your best days are ahead of you, and you can anticipate all the glories of heaven and eternity. It should motivate you to be faithful to Jesus as you wait for His return.

© 2024. Written by Bob and Debby Gass. Used by permission under licence from UCB International.