S)"24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win."
1 Corinthians 9:24 (NASB)
O) Paul refers to ministry and faith and perseverence in righteousness as a race in a few different places. In this one, Paul is reminding us that there are several factors that we can control, that put us in position to win our own race. It's important to remember that it's not a competition with our brothers and sisters, though, it's a competition with ourselves.A) I need to listen to the Lord's instruction, like a player obeys a coach. I need to heed the advice of others who have come before me, as if I'm rookie. I need to be self-disciplined like a veteran. Even if I'm doing well, there is always room for improvement. Even the '72 Dolphins had areas that could've been better. Nothing is more important than making it to heaven, but that's a baseline. I don't want to settle for finishing, I want to finish well.
P) Father, You've done a great work in me, and you've put me in position to win. I want to honor the work You've done by living my life well. I want my marriage to be healthy, my kids to be successful, I want a ministry that is fruitful (which I know is not the same as lucrative or large). In all of these things, though, I want You to be glorified. These are blessings to me already and if they stayed the same - even if they got worse - I would be satisfied in You. So, Holy Spirit, work in me and with me to run this race in a manner as to win it, for Your glory. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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