Today’s Thought “HE – Lives in Me!” G. Ward

1 Corinthians 9

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.

 

Sports euphemisms were a favorite to the Apostle Paul. The Roman Empire’s fascination with sports was comparable to ours and because many ascribed to it for entertainment, such contrast is merited and whereas running is the feature of our theme, the objective is winning the prize. These athletes would train vigorously, knowing of a complicated demand from their competitors (similarly).

We’re placed in this world, almost as an athlete in a foreign country (cf. Heb.11:9) and soon we’ll line up to hear a starting gun, but our race won’t necessarily have a competitor in view, but more a time to beat. Our Lord’s return is imminent (1 Cor. 15:51-54) and each day presents a vigorous, DAILY training regimen (*Matt.4:4) and failure to show up for practice can disqualify your chances (Luke 6:46, Heb.4:16).

 Hurry onto the Source of your supply (Isa.48:9, “For the sake of My name I delay My wrath, and for My praise I restrain it for you, in order not to cut you off.”).