Scripture
1 Corinthians 9:26,27-“So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified."
Observation
With the Tokyo Olympics approaching, much of the world waits in excitement to see who will win those coveted gold medals. These athletes have dedicated their entire lives to this pursuit, and it has dictated their schedules, their diet, their thought life, and their daily choices. They have made tough choices to avoid certain behaviors and substances that weren’t necessarily bad but would hinder their ultimate goal. Every decision is made with purpose as they discipline their bodies in hopes of reaching their peak performance to maximize their preparedness for the games.
Paul chose this illustration because the Corinthians understood this athletic mindset. Since Corinth was the center for the Isthmian Games, its people were familiar with the competition and the dedication and discipline of an elite athlete. Paul wanted them to understand that these athletes they watched committed their entire lives to a mere sport that resulted in a fading prize, yet how much more should Christ-followers commit their lives to a Kingdom battle resulting in a daily blessing and eternal prize. Like these athletes, this commitment to the Kingdom should dictate their schedules, thought life, daily choices and so much more.
Application
I wonder how different my life would look if I dedicated myself like these Olympic athletes. I wonder how different my day would look if every choice I made was based on the eternal prize instead of the temporary emotion. Today I need to ask myself:
- How can I better discipline my mind and steward my time?
- How can I ensure my heart is dedicated toward this Kingdom pursuit like these athletes?
- What do I need to avoid that could distract me from the Prize?
May I run today with purpose!
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for giving me purpose, hope, and an eternal prize. Like an Olympic athlete, may this pursuit of You dictate every thought, every decision, and every behavior. May I “run” and live today in such a way that brings honor to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
