Living Like A Champion

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” — 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, the apostle Paul compares the Christian life to running a race. He often uses sports examples to teach spiritual truths. The lessons we learn from playing sports can help us live better lives as God’s people.

1. Competition

Most sports involve two teams competing to win, with each side putting in maximum effort. Paul tells us to live our lives in a way that secures our eternal reward.

Some athletes compete without really caring or trying. However, if we want to reach heaven, we must give our best effort.

Satan is giving his absolute best to defeat us, so we must fight even harder. While we have God on our side to help us, He expects us to:

• Do what is right and good.
• Resist temptation.
• Help others learn about Him.

2. Rules

Every sport has rules that players must follow. If you break them, you receive a penalty, and if you break too many, you lose the game.

God has also set boundaries and rules for our lives.

Some people think they can make up their own rules or ignore God’s commands. However, God warns that we will be judged by the truth He has revealed. To win the prize of heaven, we must live according to His rules.

3. Training

Before a competition, an athlete spends hours preparing. They practice hard, eat healthy food for energy, and mentally prepare for the game.

As Christians, we must also train every single day.

• Our spiritual food is the Word of God.
• We protect our minds by avoiding harmful influences in TV, movies, books, and video games.
• We study scripture so we can use it effectively, much like a soldier learning to use a sword.

We should constantly ask ourselves what God wants us to do in different situations. This exercises our minds to think like Him, helping us resist temptation and do good when Satan attacks.

4. The Prize

God has promised His faithful people an eternal home in heaven. Paul encourages us to prepare ourselves and run with focus to obtain this reward.

Keep the prize of heaven in your mind daily. Remembering this ultimate goal will keep you from giving up when the race gets difficult.