Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2022
Tuesday, January 4, 2022
I have finished the race (2 Tim. 4: 7).
The apostle Paul said that all true Christians are running in a race (Heb. 12: 1). In fact, regardless of our age or energy, we must all endure to the end if we are to receive the reward that Jehovah offers us. --Matt. 24:13. Paul could confidently speak on this subject because he had finished the race (2 Tim. 4: 7, 8). But what career was he talking about? In order to teach important lessons, Paul sometimes used examples from ancient Greek games (1 Cor. 9: 25-27; 2 Tim. 2: 5). On several occasions, he compared the Christian's life to a race (1 Cor. 9:24; Gal. 2: 2; Philip. 2:16). A person begins this career when he dedicates himself to Jehovah and is baptized (1 Pet. 3:21). And he crosses the line when Jehovah gives him the prize of eternal life (Matt. 25: 31-34, 46; 2 Tim. 4: 8). w20.04 26 pars. 1-3
What should we do if we stumble?
In the Christian race, we may stumble on many occasions, either because we say or do something wrong, or because a brother makes a mistake that offends us. This should not surprise us, as we are all imperfect and we are running on the same narrow path that leads to life. So it is normal that sometimes we collide with each other. Paul said that sometimes we will have a reason to complain about our companions (Col. 3:13). But let's not focus on what caused us to stumble, but on the prize that awaits us. If we fall, let's get up and keep running. Do not stay on the ground bitter and complaining, because that way we will not be able to cross the finish line or win the prize. What's more, we could be an obstacle for those who are trying to run on the narrow path that leads to life.
What should we do in order not to be a hindrance to others?
If we do not want to be a hindrance to our fellow racers, we must also give in when possible and not insist on our rights (Rom. 14:13, 19-21; 1 Cor. 8: 9, 13). This is very different from what happens in a literal race. The runners compete with each other, and they all strive to be the sole winner. Usually they never think of others. So maybe they will try to fight their way to lead the race. Instead, we do not compete against our brothers (Gal. 5:26; 6: 4). Our goal is to help everyone we can to cross the finish line with us and win the prize of life. So we strive to follow Paul's inspired counsel to seek not only our own interests, "but those of others as well" (Philippians 2: 4).
What are runners concentrating on, and why?
In addition to always looking ahead, runners focus on the finish line. Even if they can't literally see it, they imagine the moment they cross it and receive the award. This keeps them motivated.
What does Jehovah guarantee us out of love?
Out of love, Jehovah guarantees us that everyone who finishes the race will win the prize of eternal life, whether in heaven or in Paradise on earth. The Bible gives us details that allow us to glimpse what this award will be like. So we can imagine the wonderful life that awaits us. The more we focus on this hope, the more determined we will be to avoid the pitfalls that could prevent us from finishing the race.
All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2020 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania JW.ORG.
Comments
Post a Comment