1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 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. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Observation
Paul compares our 'walk' with Jesus to training and running in a race. Discipline yourself in such a way that you finish the race and win the prize. Persevere and bring your physical body into subjection so that you won't give into fleshly desires. It's not enough to begin a race . . . but the goal is to run the race and complete it! Finish well!
Application
This reminds me of my granddaughter Alyse who is a cross country runner in track events at her high school. She trains in all weather - when the sun is shining or when it's cold, windy, blustery, and overcast! She's out there with the other runners, running sprints, warming up, stretching, preparing for the race. She competes against her own times, setting herself for the long haul. She paces herself. She familiarizes herself as much as she can with the terrain, the running course. Endurance, strengthening, and focus are a part of her every day schedule. She watches her diet, gets rest, and keeps a positive attitude. She looks to her instructors for ways to improve and is open to necessary corrections. She runs and trains with teammates who push her to the limit and encourage her to keep going. Quitting is not an option.
I can learn something here. Spiritual disciplines are God's training program for me! They will help develop character and endurance, faith, and positive attitude! By practicing some daily devotional habits everyday, I can run the race to win and not get side lined because of a lack of self - discipline. Setting aside a morning time at the feet of Jesus is essential, as well as getting necessary rest, eating right, prayer, worship, Bible reading, quiet, journaling, serving, fellowship - these are all a part of my daily 'training' program for the race. I will stay the course! Take a day at a time! And so I will run this race to win the prize of Your high calling in Jesus Christ my Lord!
Prayer
Father, thank You for this reminder. It's timely. I give You praise for helping me refocus and to keep moving forward - and for encouraging me through the life of my beloved granddaughter. She inspires me! May I continue to run the race to win, with the thought of doing 'today well' in such a way to bring glory and honor to Your Name! In Jesus Name I pray. A-men.
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