“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training…. We do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly.”

1 Corinthians 9:25-26
When I first heard that the tallest mountain in the lower 48 United States was within driving distance of me, I knew I had to attempt it. The big challenge would be training to reach Mt. Whitney’s 14, 505 foot summit. 

I began to think of different ways I could train my body and decided to do something I hate: running. By committing myself to running a half marathon, I would have to be disciplined enough to train for the race. I knew this would in turn help me prepare for the hike. 

The metaphor of the Christian life being like training for a sporting event is familiar. In the letter to the Corinthian church, Paul speaks about athletic games, using language and images they could identify with. He talks about being disciplined in order to run our race of faith well. Our motivation is the sacrificial love that we have in Christ, love that transforms our desires and motivates us to live in a way that pleases Him. The grace we have in Jesus gives us the strength we need to sustain our efforts in running well our race of faith. 



Scripture Focus

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Insight

Think of how you can joyfully engage in the spiritual disciplines God has called you to today.

Bible In A Year

  • 2 Chronicles 5-6
  • Psalm 10
  • Matthew 14-15

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