2 Timothy 4:7-9

In church on Sunday our Pastor referenced the passage 2 Timothy 4:7-8:

⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. ⁸ And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

Reading this almost instantly brought tears to my eyes because the last time I had laid eyes on this passage was at my Grandpa's memorial service.  Even writing this post, I get teary eyed because of how much I miss this man, and how much I wish my daughter could have been able to meet him.  

This verse that was chosen for this service though is so amazing, and such a great reminder; at least for myself.  I know that without a doubt that when my Grandpa stood before the thrown of the Lord that he said these words and knew with absolute confidence that he HAD fought a good great fight while here on earth, and that he did remain faithful.  It really gives me a great reminder of how I need and want to live out my life.  I want to be able to stand before the Lord and be able to recite these same words without any wavering in my voice.  

Sitting there in church, seeing, hearing, and reading this passage, I felt that my Grandpa was right there with me; encouraging me to strive to live my life pleasing to God.  Even though my grandpa is not here on earth anymore, I know that he is with me everyday.  And how do I know this to be true?  Because it is with instances like the one I had Sunday.  When we least expect it God shows up and gives us the encouragement we need, whether it be from someone we lost or from a friend down the street.  

Isaiah 41:10  

fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.