2 Timothy 4:7-8, “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 me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” Our life in Christ is an obstacle course. We all face challenges. It is marked by spiritual warfare. It’s not meant to be a straight and easy path. That would mean we don’t need God’s help to see us through. We would be able to make it on our own. In an obstacle course we must be steadfast in overcoming what is placed before us. We are challenged to persevere, to overcome the obstacle; to press forward despite what is in our path. As I read this verse the words “kept the faith” jumped out at me. I visualized myself in an obstacle course. I am by no means an athlete. There have been many times in my life I’ve been presented with an obstacle. The “Now Whats” I call them. These were the times I didn’t know how to get around something happening in my life. The times I needed to call out to God for wisdom and guidance. The times I knew I couldn’t do it on my own. These were the times it was faith that strengthened me. When we are faced with challenges and obstacles, when we must call out to God, it is at these times, we are reminded of God’s promise that He is there with us to see us through. Keeping the faith of what is laid up for us when we finish the course of our life is what gives us the strength to overcome.