Today's reading: I Corinthians 9-12
Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it. I Cor. 9:24 NRSV
Funny to think that God really does want us to win.
But in order to win, we have to do lots of work. No pain, no gain, as it is said. Paul speaks of punishing or enslaving his body so that after spreading the gospel he himself will not be out of the running. He is rounding out his argument as to why he doesn't eat lavishly, get married or stop working. He does not want to put any kind of barrier in front of anyone who might except the gospel and he also does not want to disqualify himself in the meanwhile. I don't think he is saying this is what every evangelist should do. However, he is encouraging all believers to run to win...even if that means refraining from certain items or behaviors. The prize is the goal, not the race itself.
Are you running to win? Or are you just participating in the race?
Paul challenges you to win the race.
Go for it!
God, thank you for Paul's words of inspiration. Help us to run as though we are going to win. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
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