These words of Paul to the young Pastor Timothy remind me of just how radical Paul was about his faith, the Gospel and serving Jesus.
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 2Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2Timothy 4:8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6–8 NKJV)

There are four things in this passage that stand out to me as the true marks of a radical, sold-out Christian.

1. "...poured out" Paul had literally given all that he had to give to the Lord, holding nothing back in time and service to the cause of the Gospel.
2. "...fought the good fight" Paul wasn't just fighting for the sake of fighting, he was fighting for everything that was true, holy, pure, righteous and faithful in the sight of the Lord. He knew from the very beginning of his walk with Christ that he was in a spiritual battle. If we want to be truly spiritual we have to be engaged in the fight. (Ephesians 6:10-20)
3. "...finished the race" It wasn't about winning for Paul, it was about being faithful to finish the course of life and calling that God had in store for him. Many start well, but either finish poorly or don't finish at all.
4. "I have kept the faith" I think we all have possessions that we value. Things that a reminder of times past that bring us joy and pleasure. For Paul it wasn't what he possessed, but rather that God possessed him 100%. There was no holding out, or holding back from God. For Paul serving Christ was a marathon that he would finish as strongly as when he started.

Paul says, "Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness" it is that crowning reward of obedient living that is seen through his daily acts of righteous (right doing) living. to be granted to him by the only One who can judge the hearts of men perfectly, Jesus Christ the Lord.