By T. W. Parker

“Do you not know that in a race, all runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 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. 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. 9:24-27, NIV).

In these verses, Paul uses athletic metaphors to picture the Christian life as rigorous, requiring self-discipline and perseverance. Runners who compete in games undergo strict training: they exercise self-control when they train for a competition. Athletes who competed in the games in Olympia had to swear an oath confirming that they had abstained from wine, meat, and sexual intercourse in the previous ten months. Runners focused on winning the prize, a crown in the games at Olympia, and Isthmia that did not last; it did eventually fade away.

However, as believers, we run the race for a crown that will last forever! As a result, eternal life in an imperishable new body (1 Cor. 15:42, 50, 53-54). Therefore, as Christians, we must avoid anything that can jeopardize reaching the finish line. Moreover, self-control is part of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:23). Indeed, we cannot allow the desires and urges of the body to control our behavior; when we overcome the trials of life, there is a crown of righteousness waiting for all of those who have finished the race. Glory Hallelujah! And Happy New Year