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 a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
These verses remind me that every choice we make matters. We know God has promised us eternal life with him, but we still want to live the best life we possibly can. I know I want to please God. My choices between selfishness and generosity, deceit and honesty, ”chilliness” and friendliness all matter to God. I owe it to God to live as He would have me live, as much as I am able. “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” Luke 12:48b
Father God, I am full of thankfulness this morning. I am ready to continue to run the race, and will finish the best that I can. Today I ask humbly that you shower comfort and courage on those suffering because of events out of their control. There is so much need in the world. Soften hearts, as only you are able to do, I pray. Amen
Becky, transforming
1 Corinthians 9: 24-27
These verse tell me that Scripture teaches that self-control is the gift of the Holy Spirit. Without self-control, we have little opportunity to experience the full blessings of God. Discipline should be a part of every believer’s spiritual growth. It often requires a lifestyle change but it is worth the effort.
Dearest Lord, thank you for giving the Holy Spirit the power to give us the grace of self-control that is needed to win heaven. You are a generous God filled with love and compassion for our fellow believers. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Whether we have just started training or are in the middle of a competition, the Bible has many verses to help keep any athlete motivated and self disciplined. God’s Word can keep us humble when we are winning and uplift us when we are losing, but we must remember as believers our race is a spiritual race for God. Sometimes I hit a low point during my walk With God. I just physically feel I cannot do this. But I will not lose faith. I will continue my walk through prayer and studying the Bible. The harder I work in my faith the better my reward will be here on earth and in heaven. We must disciplin…
1 Corinthians 9:24–27 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. I am not an athlete, but I know to be a great one takes much preparation and discipline. Being a Christian and one who looks forward to the ultimate “prize” takes the same mental attitude. We know that prayer, Bible study, and worship give us what we need to run this race of life. We need self-discipline to not let things get in the way – just like the athlete cannot skip their practice routine. Prayer, Gracious God keep me disciplined by studying your word and praising your works. Amen
1Cor 9: 24-27 - . . . “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. . .”
Paul’s example would have been very familiar to his audience. The Olympic Games were even bigger news than than today. Despite the fame an Olympic crown brought, Paul reminded his audience that it was a finite thing. The crown of glory in Christ Jesus is eternal, and like an Olympic crown, requires the self-control of constant “training” in the ways of living taught by Jesus. The thing to remember is though all are not capable of Olympic glory,…