Winning the Race

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 it says “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize?  So run to win!  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.  So I run with purpose in every step.  I am not just shadowboxing.  I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should do. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

Track athletes compete in a physical race. As children of God we are involved in a spiritual race.  But if you notice, there is discipline and training needed for the physical as well as spiritual race.  Tom Brady is one of the top athletes in sports.  He has been to 8 Super Bowls, and has won 5 of them.  He is considered by most to be the best quarterback to ever play the game.  How does he perform at such a high level?  By lifting weights, watching his diet, practicing and training.  All of this takes discipline and self-control. 

If athletes in the world train and discipline themselves for a temporary reward; shouldn’t we discipline ourselves (much more) for the imperishable crown of eternal life?

What is the Holy Spirit telling you to stop doing?  Or what is the Holy Spirit telling you to start doing?  He might be saying wake up a little earlier in the morning and start praying or reading your bible.  Or maybe, He is saying to start fasting more.  Or He might just be saying you need to be more diligent at your workplace.  Whatever it may be, God will give you the strength and ability to carry it out; but you must be willing to obey Him.  However, that obedience might come in the form of self-control and discipline. 
 
Pastor Marcus