Paul continues to explain this in 1 Corinthians 9:
Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 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. (1 Cor. 9:26-27)
3. The Christian Life Has a Goal.
If the Christian life is like a race, then a third implication for us is that there is a goal. Here’s how he put it in 1 Corinthians 9 again:
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. (1 Cor. 9:25)
Back to the Isthmian Games, the prize for the winner was a wreath that was worn like a crown. But what is that goal?
In a world that is fixated on achievement and personal validation, the Christian doesn’t seek after a temporary acknowledgment of their greatness, but instead has the goal of a crown that will last forever. What we are after in this disciplined journey of life is to life faithfully to Jesus, doing what He has called us to do and being who He has called us to be.
It is our goal to life in such a way that, having been changed by His grace, we are faithful stewards of what God has given to us and birthed in us. Our goal is to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” just as the man did in Jesus’ story. (Matt. 25:23)
Yes, life is a race. May we run it with all our might.
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
