1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
This illustration is easy to picture. My son ran track this year. He worked hard in training and continues to “gain” in his muscle mass. He has inspired me to do better in my physical training. I attended a workshop this week on the topic of health and ministry. For two days in a row I have exercised. I hope I can keep it up.
It takes discipline and time to train and exercise. These are two elements needed in our spiritual development. An even more important thing is motivation. Paul writes of the “prize” here. He describes this prize in 2 Timothy 4:7-8:
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
We are prone to temptations and weaknesses in our bodies. That is why we must discipline them and use them as instruments for the kingdom. Preaching itself is not enough to get the prize. It takes obedience to the Holy Spirit and living out our faith in Christ. Paul finishes this chapter with the call to put our priorities in order and remember what is the most important thing we can do: follow God’s call to become like our Savior. Paul knew he had to practice what he preaches.
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