Do you not know that those who run in a
race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain
it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now
they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 1
Corinthians 9:24-25
Athletes
are willing to push themselves harder and longer and farther than anyone else.
They strive to bring their bodies and minds completely under control so that
they excel and receive a prize. Others go home to relax, but athletes continue
to train. While most people protect themselves from any form of discomfort,
athletes push themselves to the limits of their endurance. While some remain
satisfied with mediocre performance, athletes pay any price for excellence.
Paul said that despite their most valiant efforts, the athletes’ successes and
prizes are eventually forgotten. Even the greatest athletic achievements have
not affected eternity.
If an
athlete can be motivated to make incredible sacrifices for a perishable reward,
how much more ought Christians to strive for an imperishable one? If an athlete
will labor day after day in order to receive glory from others, how much harder
ought Christians to work for the “well done” of their Master? Are you striving
to bring your body into subjection for the glory of God? Are you training your
mind to think the thoughts of God rather than thoughts of the world? Are you
disciplining your life in prayer? When others are sleeping, are you
interceding? Have you studied God’s word so diligently that you are prepared to
find answers to the challenges you face? Have you equipped yourself in
evangelism so that you are ready to share your faith? Have you prepared
yourself as a Christian in order to qualify for the imperishable crown that
awaits you?
No comments:
Post a Comment