“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.” (2 Timothy 4:7 NLT)
The ultimate compliment that believers should strive to unquestionably earn when their days on earth are nearing an end or in the case where their frail physiques keep them from faithfully performing their Christian duties as they did in younger years, referring to that long span of time when they faithfully served and supplied other Christians with an example of how to stay committed to the climb; the best compliment would be best expressed, borrowing from the inspired, composed words of the Apostle Paul, as seen in the opening verse. It would be made personal: “He/she fought the good fight! He/she finished the race!” He/she remained faithful.” Let us not cease striving to earn such a compliment in the future.
But realizing how deserved compliments build up our self-esteem, boost out commitment levels, and bring smiles to our faces in the midst of whatever we face, let me give you some preliminary compliments in the present time to carry you through, at least, through the rest of this week.
“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world (Romans 1:8 NIV).” You have earned this compliment! And I am sure that you will keep walking by faith my friend!
Second, I want to compliment you for doing your best to comply with the following: “So let’s do it—full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out. Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching (2 Hebrews 10:24-25 MSG).” I compliment you again! Good job! I am confident that you will keep complying to the best of your ability! Praise God for you!
Third, I surely must compliment you for your diligence in studying the word of God. Obviously, you got the message Paul spoke centuries ago, “Be a good workman, one who does not need to be ashamed when God examines your work. Know what his Word says and means. Steer clear of foolish discussions that lead people into the sin of anger with each other (2 Timothy 2:15-16).” This deserved compliment is connected to your letting others see you as the salt of the earth and the light of the world! And I am sure that is how you have been able to witness to the truth that sets men and women, boys and girls, free from the penalty of sin. Keep studying His word! It is profitable, right? Make this compliment a perpetual commendation.
I am so proud of how you have shown that you have been born again. I just have to add this fourth compliment, because you took to heart these words taken from the scriptures, “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love his brother remains in death (I John 3:14 MEV)” Keep loving one another!
I don’t want to keep you too long this Tuesday, but I just have to compliment you for revealing by your actions that you know exactly when you make a mistake, have a mess up, experience a spiritual malfunction, and when you need to rely on the mercy of God. You have followed this prescription found in the New Testament, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9 NASB).” None of us are perfect, but we strive for perfection and make perfect progress! I thank God you are an example of one who keeps striving and one who realizes that in Christ we are not failures. We may have failings, but we are securely safe in His hands. My friend, stay right there! Keep getting fixed up ASAP when you have a failing!
I hope these preliminary compliments will carry you through the week! Smile! But don’t just smile, continue to “Seek ye first!” If you do, you will be free from that anxiety that comes from wondering about your source for food, clothing, and shelter needs. Be blessed!
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” (Matthew 6:33 ESV)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King