Crown of Life – Persevering Through Trials
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. – James 1:12
Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. – Revelation 2:10
The Crown of life is like the victory wreath given to winning athletes. God’s crown of life is not glory ad honor here on earth, but the reward of eternal life – living with God forever. The way to be in God’s winners circle is by loving him and staying faithful even under pressure.
Pain is a part of life, but it is never easy to suffer, no matter what the cause. Jesus commended the church of Smyrna for its faith in suffering. He then encouraged the believers that they need not fear the future it they remain faithful. If you are experiencing difficult times, don’t let them turn you away from God. Instead let them draw you towards greater faithfulness. Trust God and remember your heavenly reward.
Imperishable Crown – Being Disciplined Until the End
Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. – 1 Corinthians 9:25
Paul parallels the Christian life to those who run a race and acknowledges that it’s good to persevere and finish the race. It shows discipline and focus towards achieving your goal, even though it is one that will eventually perish. As Christians, we should discipline ourselves like athletes do for a race, and stay focused on accomplishing what God has called us to complete during our life. At times we must deny ourselves and give up something good in order to do what God wants. This is how you will receive the reward of the Imperishable Crown in heaven.
Crown of Righteousness – Faithfull in Ministry and Faith in God
Now there is in store 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 longed for his appearing. – 2 Timothy 4:8
Paul knew that he was approaching the last moments of his life on earth and he was urging Timothy to remain faithful in ministry. He goes on to say that there will be a Crown of Righteousness waiting for him in heaven. Although Paul would not receive an earthly reward, he would be rewarded in heaven. Whatever we may face, discouragement, persecution or death, we know that our reward is with Christ in heaven.
Crown of Glory – Pastors & Leaders in Gods Church
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. – 1 Peter 5:2-4
Peter describes characteristics for good leadership in the church.
This Crown of Glory is for Pastors or leaders who shepherd Gods flock well.
Crown of Rejoicing – Leading others to Know Christ and to Grow in Him
For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy. – 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
The ultimate reward for Paul’s ministry was not money, prestige or fame but new believers whose lives had been changed by God through the preaching of the gospel. No matter what ministry God has given you, your highest reward and greatest joy should be those who come to believe in Christ and are growing in him. When you get to heaven there will be a great rejoicing when you see all the people who you were able to make an impact on and caused them to know Christ and grow in him.