As the veteran apostle wrote to his beloved younger colleague, he knew his time on earth was drawing to a close. Ever since Paul had met Christ on the road to Damascus, he had been sold out in his allegiance and devotion to his Lord. He had never wavered in his calling. He had held nothing back.
Now, as he reflected on his experiences, Paul concluded that his life had been one extended drink offering, poured out freely to his Lord. Just as a drink offering is poured out on the altar and spent fully for God, so Paul had held nothing back in his devotion for Christ. Truly Paul’s life had been an acceptable sacrifice to holy God! Paul had fought the good fight. The Christian life had not been easy. He had been dogged by bitter opponents. He had suffered severe persecution. Paul’s spiritual pilgrimage had not been a pleasant cruise down a gentle stream. His life had largely been an unrelenting battle in the midst of a tempest. Yet he had fought well. He had refused to complain. He had kept his eye on the prize. And, like a marathon runner, he had eventually come within sight of the finish line. Despite fierce opposition and continual persecution, Paul never wavered. He held tightly to his faith.
We ought to take heart from Paul’s example. Our Christian life may not be easy. In fact, it might have introduced us to some of the most painful experiences of our life. Yet we must hold on! We cannot surrender. We must continue to fight. The prize may not be far off. The finish line is approaching. Keep fighting! Keep running! Live a life that is a glorious offering to your Lord and Savior.