A Daily Devotion for Wednesday, July 8
- ontrakk
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
I 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.
A quick reading of this passage might lead one to think that very few can reach the goal of eternal life with Jesus. But reading it more closely shows that Paul’s underlying message is to never give up, and never let up on our best efforts in life. Our faithful training and conditioning as Christians allow us to complete the race as winners. I am glad the writer of the UR used the example of a 5K race and not some sort of marathon. God’s grace extends to every living being, not simply those who excell physically or in any one area. We do not need to be #1 in any race or contest. We need to live our lives with purpose.
Holy Lord, thank you for allowing me to live this full and amazing life, in your presence, in your love and protection. I am so very thankful. Amen
Becky, transforming
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
These verses have me thinking about when my kids were growing up. I frequently told them “whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well”, this is a quote from Philip Stanhope. pIt is like Paul says, “Run in such a way as to get to the prize…”. He is encouraging us to give our best effort, stay on track, don’t give up. Do it not to impress anyone, but because we are serving Christ. Just like doing a job well, as we live a life that honors God, we must prepare well, work with integrity, be disciplined, and have purpose. It will lead to success as we run the race on this earth toward salvation.
I Corinthians 9:24-27
The illustration of a foot race is entirely lost on me as the only running I do is to the refrigerator. That said, I do find the admonition to stay the course, to persevere, a lesson worth keeping in mind. I encounter all kinds of people in camp, but my mission is the same for each one; simply share the love of Christ by letting them tell their story and being a good listener. Little things are the fuel that keep me going. Yesterday a first year Scout, probably 11 or 12, saw the Methodist Cross and Flame epaulets on my uniform shirt. His eyes widened and he asked, “Is that the Holy Cross?” “Yes,” I said.…