In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul wrote concerning the end of his life and what would come after, saying,
"For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing."
Paul knew the end of his life was coming, but for many death arrives without giving notice.
What if you died today? In the time you have been given, what has been the purpose of your fight? What race have you been running? In whom, or what, have you put your faith? In other words, what have you done with your life?
Paul had a reward waiting for him; what is waiting for you? Have you considered that there is more to life after you die? Hebrews 9:27 states with simplicity, “…it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment.” Paul knew that his existence would continue after death. That is true for every person. The quality of your existence depends on what you have done with your life.
The end of a year is an opportune time to consider how you have used your time. Earthly life is temporary and can end at any moment. To receive the crown of righteousness after death requires your obedience to the gospel (see 2 Thess. 1:8) and your continual submission to His righteous standard (see 1 John 1:5-7). Before the year ends, please spend some time considering your eternal future and how your choices today are shaping it. Choose to submit to God’s will and love His appearing in the end.