“Endure hardships, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one that goes to war entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please the one who has chosen him to be a soldier. And if a person also contends in public games, they are not crowned unless they strive lawfully. The gardener that labors must be the first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say, and the Lord give you understanding in all things” (2 Timothy 2:3-7).
The Bible likens the Christian life to three types of people – a soldier, an athlete, and a gardener. A soldier takes orders from the captain and no longer interacts with civilian affairs. Their goal is higher than civilian life – for King and Country. They are asked to endure hard training, selfless lifestyles, and few comforts. But they feel honored and understand the importance of their higher calling. Are we living to please the Captain of our salvation?
The Christian is also to have an athlete’s mindset. These dedicated individuals are disciplined and faithful in their training. They won’t achieve their goals by hit-and-miss lazy attitudes and uncontrolled appetites. They have mastered self-control and live by the rules of their profession. Whether they eat, or drink, or whatever they do, they do it all for the prize of the coming crown. Are we living for the “crown of glory that never fades away?”
Lastly, the Christian must be a gardener that taste-tests his own fruit (actions and attitudes) first before deciding to sell it or give it away. The faithful gardener waters his crops on time, weeds, and nourishes – but he, above all others – is to be the first, honest fruit-inspector of his own crops. Are they worthy of being called “fruits of righteousness”?
A life of selfless service to save others, a life of eternal purpose, a life of growth in Christlike character – this is the only life worthy to give back to the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.
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