Who’s your favorite athlete? Do you look to him or her as a role model? Paul compares the Christian life to an athletic event, such as a race or boxing match. Champions discipline themselves in their diet, exercise, and rest so they can do their very best. Likewise, we Christians should discipline ourselves in prayer, Bible study, and fellowship.
“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. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27, NKJV).
As you compete, beware of obstacles like pride, idolatry, and rebellion that can knock you off course and cause you to lose. Are you a “pro” caliber athlete in the faith or a part-time amateur? If you want to be a champion for Christ, you have to put in the hard work and discipline it takes to win!
The content of this article comes from “The Warrior’s Bible” (2014) and is copyrighted by Life Publishers International. Used with permission.
