I once preached a sermon  about the importance of staying in the race. I referenced the time that Paul was in prison and wrote to Timothy. Paul challenged Timothy to preach the Word in season and out of season and to live a godly life. As I remembered that sermon, I thought about Paul’s instruction to Timothy, to live a godly life, one that was pleasing unto God. I believe that our witness is crucial to our walk with God. Let me put a disclaimer here. We are not perfect, but we should strive to please God in all that we do. I remember being asked to define the word “Christian” when I was in Sunday School. My  answer was “Christ-like.” That is what we as Christians are called to be — ­­ to be like Christ and to live a godly life. In 2 Timothy 3:12, we find these words:

“Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”

The true tests of a Christian are seen by the scars. That’s the point I made in my sermon. All who live a godly life should have scars that indicate our suffering for Christ. Paul experienced suffering. He was not complaining, but rather explaining. When you get a chance, read this entire chapter. You will see words like “suffering, enduring, patient, and steadfast.” Anyone living a godly life must have these attributes. Prayerfully today, we are all striving to live a godly life,  and know the requirements needed to be committed to living a life that is pleasing unto God.