Run to Win

1 Corinthians 9:24-25 ESV
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”

Paul is appealing to the Corinthians, not about a physical race but a spiritual race. The people of Corith were strong willed and competitive, so for Paul to use an athletic example would get their attention.

In simplicity, we all are running a race, not to compete with other Christians of course, but to give this race our full abilities and spiritual fever of how we live for Christ. All of us are heading to the same goal, but each of us has our own route so-to-speak. I cannot run your race and you cannot run my race, we all have different assignments, different paths.

Paul says, to be like an athlete and keep our eyes on the prize to win at this new life in Christ. To do that we have to exercise our hearts, minds and spirits to be able to qualify. Then we have to obtain self-control. I say obtain it because each of us work out this self-control differently; it is easier for some than it is for others. In Corinth, self-control was at a deficit. They needed more exercise in the Spirit of Jesus Christ to run their race.

Today, to attain the prize as a child of God, let’s exercise the Spirit of God in us, use it to bring glory and honor to Him. Practice self-control in every area of our lives, especially in spiritual matters. Run this race with endurance and stamina keep going, encourage one another and encourage ourselves. Run to obtain the prize that is set before us.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, strengthen us for the race today. Don’t let us fool ourselves in thinking we can do it on our own or without the training in Your word and in fellowship with You. In Your name Lord Jesus, give us endurance, stamina, and the ability to press on.