Crown: May 21, 2010

Today's Word for Friday May 21, 2010

CROWN

DEFINITION
Any of various types of headgear worn by a king or monarch as a symbol of sovereignty, an award for a great achievement.

SCRIPTURE

"There is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." II Timothy 4:8

"He will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him” James 1:12

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

James tells us that all who love the Lord will receive the crown of life and Timothy tells that we have a crown of righteousness waiting for us. In ancient Greece crown-like wreaths were awarded to the victors in athletic events. The crown of life, which James refers to, is eternal life that will be the ultimate award for all believers. The crown of righteousness represents the eternal righteousness we receive through Jesus Christ when we get to heaven. What a glorious day that will be!

How many times have you either wondered or silently said to yourself "I fear I shall never enter heaven?" Are you one that doubts? Fear not because every person in our world who put his or her trust in the Lord shall enter heaven and has no reason to fear.

Recently we read of the remarks made by a man who was dying. He said that he had no fear about going to heaven and in addition he had sent before him all the things of importance. God, he said, had forgiven his sins and he had accepted Jesus as his Savior so he was on his way to heaven. He also said that God had His finger on the latch of his hearts door and he was ready for Him to enter and take him home.

Then someone said to this elderly man, "Aren't you concerned about losing your inheritance?" NO, NO, NO, NO he responded. He went on to respond further by saying that he sent his inheritance ahead of him and there is one crown in heaven that God has made for me and it will only fit my head and even the apostle Paul cannot wear it because it fits only me

In Revelation 3:11 we read to, "Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown." This little story, which is a true story, serves as a reminder to us that as children of God, we cannot lose our inheritance and crown that God has for us in heaven. If you have repented of your sins, believe in the Lord Jesus, and have asked Him into your heart, there is not only a place reserved for you in heaven but a crown and some say even a special harp just for you.


LEARNING

Our memory verse for this week is found in Proverbs 16:3.

"Commit your work to the Lord and your thoughts will be established."

PRAYER

Help me today to make a priority of doing what God expects of me to receive my crown when I arrive in heaven. Help me and my family to put our priorities in the things and issues that count for eternity.