Scripture Devotion
The report from the cell: course finished, faith kept — and the crown is already laid up.
“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.”
Reflection
Paul writes from a Roman cell at the end of everything, and his report has no victory lap in it — the fight fought, the course finished, the faith kept, and the rest left to the righteous judge. Notice what he counts on: not applause, not acquittal, but a crown already laid up, waiting past the finish line. The Teacher warns this same morning against vows made and not paid, words multiplied, riches hoarded to the owner's hurt. The ledger that matters has three lines, all about endurance. Write today's entry accordingly.