Run to Win the Christian Race

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. (NIV)

Paul calls for us to run to win the Christian race. We know we are saved by faith. He is not teaching us to run to earn our salvation. Salvation is a gift we receive by faith. But once we are saved, He calls us to run to win. In other words, Paul is warning us about the dangers of a casual approach to Christianity. 

When we go through the motions, but lack zeal, we are going through the motions. If we truly believe that our souls are under attack by the god of this age every single day, then we will not take lightly the need to put on the full armor of God. But when we only carry the sword but forget the shield, helmet, and all the stuff, we are living casually as if there is no war being waged against the peace and joy of our souls. But when we understand there is a war and an enemy working hard to steal away everything God has given to us, we will not go about our Christianity in a nonchalant way. We will pray harder, sing louder, serve more, forgive always, and let love lead us. We will run the race to win. 

Paul reminds us that we must go into strict training. Some of that training is being selective about what we allow our minds to focus on. When we focus on the Lord, we will run to win. However, when our mind focuses on relationships, money, or success instead of the Lord, we will pursue those things with all our hearts. Our Christianity will take a back seat, and we will not run the Christian race with the fervor and passion required. 

Prayer: Lord, help me keep my eyes on You and on the battle I am in as Your servant, that I may be passionate about staying near You, fully dressed in the armor of God.