Keep Running Your Race: 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (NLT)
(25) All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. (26) So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. (27) I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.”
The apostle Paul illustrates that our walk with God is like a sports competition that includes racing and boxing. The athletes of Paul’s time competed for a prize that included a crown that would soon fade away. The winners were crowned with a wreath made of tree branches and leaves. As athletes, they had to discipline themselves and physically train for their athletic competitions. Athletes are strict in their diets, sleep habits, and they practice and train hard so they are prepared for their sporting events and competitions.
As Christians, we are running our race as well, but our prize of victory is an eternal prize that does not fade away. We run each step with purpose and we, like athletes, discipline ourselves as well. It takes effort to pray, read and study the Word of God when watching TV is so much easier. In many areas, we can overindulge and create unhealthy lifestyles and habits. Our walk is a walk of faith in God’s Word, believing that what He has promised can be achieved and we can live a victorious life.
Personal Development Tip of the week:
What areas in your life would you like to have victory? Write your challenges and goals and find the Bible scriptures that support your desired outcome. Believe that God loves you and wants you to be victorious in all areas of your life. Speak victory over those areas and ask the Holy Spirit to guide and direct you.
Unlike earthly competitions where there is only one winner, each one of us has our own race to run. We have our own spiritual Holy Spirit coach, Who is with us always to help us get over the hurdles and challenges of life. Keep on pressing forward and don’t give up. Finish your race that God has called you to complete. (2 Timothy 4:7)
Prayer for the week:
Dear Heavenly Father, I am praying over this individual's week. Thank God it’s Monday lord and I am praying for a great week ahead filled with joy, love, excitement, and confidence. Remember this week the joy of the Lord is your strength! I pray for protection, healing, and total favor this week in Jesus name amen!
-Dayne
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Keep Running Your Race