1 Corinthians 9:24-27
24 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. 25 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. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 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.
I have some mixed thoughts about today’s verses. I mean I know historically, Paul is comparing Christianity to the “Isthmian Games, which were celebrated every two years on the Isthmus of Corinth. Held in honor of the Greek gods, the festival consisted of foot races, horse races, chariot contests, jumping, wrestling, boxing and throwing the discus and javelin” (Archeological Bible). So, I know he is trying to tell us to keep our faith “in shape” by training! But I also see another message in these verses.
He mentions not running aimlessly and not boxing the air. To me, that is saying l need to learn to live with a purpose. He also mentions running like you are going to win. I hear, let’s live life to its fullest. In my almost 50 years of living, I have learned to not taking anything for granted. Every single day is a blessing, no matter how bad it gets. With every day you get a chance to complete again.
Our race isn’t over until that last breath is taken. I don’t want to set on the sidelines and watch the race. I want to live it with a purpose and to the fullest! I don’t want to be disqualified for the prize! So grab your shoes and let’s get going!
Lord, thank You for being my trainer and coach! I won’t let You down! I will show up every day and train to win this! ~amen
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