Compete For The Prize

1 Corinthians 9:24  
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”

Paul likens the Christian life to the Isthmian games; which took place every fifth year. Free men would compete in the races, and prepared diligently if they wanted to come home with a prize. The Christian lifestyle requires the same disciplined work ethic if we want to hear Jesus say “well done my good and faithful servant.

Paul also wrote; “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14 ). He was a man of destiny who understood the process of growth and the importance of reaching his objective.

Preparation is Everything

Like the athletes who worked hard to compete in the games, Paul worked out his own salvation with God in order to fulfill His good purpose. He understood that growth and walking in the purpose God doesn’t happen automatically.

Paul set goals and worked toward them. He was confident that the Holy Spirit was guiding him through the process, and would continue working in him the willingness and ability to keep going.

You too need to press on toward the long term goal God has for you.  By setting short term goals for growth along the way, you can monitor your progress toward maturity. Paul was a man of prayer who asked the churches for their prayers, to help him stay the course, and you should to.

Compete for the Prize 

God’s Word makes it clear that you must have goals to accomplish His purpose for your life. If you will prayerfully act on what you know to do, seeking the Spirit’s guidance, He will help you reach the ultimate goal of achieving your life’s purpose.

You’re a partner with Christ in building His Church advancing His kingdom. Carefully follow His blueprints to be sure that you’re building according to His plans, on the earth as they are in heaven. Like any building under construction, life too must be mapped out with specific goals and schedules to keep things moving forward, so it can be completed on time.

Give careful thought to how you live, and be intentional with your personal growth in living the life God has for you. Learn who you are, what your gifts are, and how you should use them. set specific goals so you may live a well ordered life as you work out your salvation with God.

Stay motivated, keep improving yourself for God’s glory, knowing that your reward is great. Stay the course; be fully engaged in the process of maturing, and Be Encouraged. -JSP