SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                                1020

“Run to Win”

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. (Corinthians 9:24-27)

Although I enjoy watching the Olympic Games, I find the backstory to be of particular interest. There is a level of commitment exhibited by these athletes that is not typically found in the general population. They may have natural talent and ability but these skills must be developed and honed to perfection in order to compete for a gold medal.

This disciplined commitment is what Paul is referencing in his letter to the Corinthians. Paul draws a parallel between being committed to attain a perishable (medal) and an imperishable (eternal life) prize. It is interesting to note that this level of commitment is required of more than just the athlete. There are sacrifices made by parents and others who have a vested interest in the athlete’s success. Let’s unpack Paul’s analogy in light of our Christian walk.

Paul exhorts us in his letter to run to win. He states that although many compete, only one gets the prize. Jesus also warns us not to be flippant relative to our commitment. “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness;’ For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 7:21-23; 22:14)

The families of the Olympiads sacrifice much to help the athlete achieve success. In like manner our Father in Heaven sacrificed His only Son so that we may attain the imperishable prize. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

Likewise, Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice by His suffering and death to pay the price for our sins. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:8)

We see the athletes frequently conferring with their coaches. There coaches are always watching and sometimes running alongside shouting words of encouragement, direction and correction. In like manner, our Triune God is so committed to our success that He sent His Holy Spirit to counsel us along the way. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. (John 14:26)

God has demonstrated His commitment to our winning the imperishable prize. Do we match His commitment? Paul exhorts us to not run aimlessly. Are we keeping our eye on the prize? Am I living a purpose driven life for Christ? Am I willing to discipline myself and sacrifice the desires of the flesh that cause me to stumble and sin?

May the Holy Spirit revive and renew a right spirit in us as we go for the imperishable prize that God has made available to us.