1Corinthians 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.
Paul is describing the discipline we should employ in our lives every day. I need to pay attention, and consider my actions at every step. The Holy Spirit is my coach (my advocate!) to remind me to stay on track. Cutting corners and finding the easiest way is not always the best choice. I like to think of Paul's reference to "striking a blow" to his body as his nod to diet and exercise! :o)
Holy Lord, being a radical disciple in today's world requires discipline. Help me to stay the course, and make good decisions. Your Holy Spirit is my guide and helper. Amen
Becky, transforming
1 Corinthians 9:24–27
Even though Paul uses the race in his example, I think it is the runner we should concentrate on. The discipline of the runner is self discipline: training, running, weightlifting, eating right, etc. But the runner in these verses is us. Christians trying their best to follow the example of the Christ as we run the race of life. Our attending church, reading the Bible, studying with others, and singing his words are all forms of self-discipline we need to practice. Our prize, as Tom said, is eternal life.
Prayer: gracious God, please guide me on my journey to stay focused on you and your word. Amen

Friday March 10th, 2023
Corinthians 9:24-27
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. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
God has given us (through the Holy Spirit), power and love and personal discipline.
Each one of us have our own unique style. We need to be ourselves and not try to copy someone else.…
1Corinthians 9:24-27
Paul’s athletic analogy is a reminder to believers to strive with all we have to be our best. The radical egalitarian nature of our current culture, especially in higher education pushes hard against that kind of thinking. This is the age not of prizes for the winner, but of participation certificates for all. While God’s dream is that all will come to a knowledge of Him and be saved, the reality is that heaven is not a certificate of participation in the human experience. We must have the discipline to deny ourselves, pick up our cross and follow Jesus. The prize is eternal life and unlike a race with but one winner, victory in this race is available…