1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Paul compared the christian life to that of an athlete running to win a trophy or prize. Like an athlete, the true christian must learn self-discipline and endurance. Christians must learn how to bring their bodies and flesh under god's control by the power of the Holy Spirit
Just as christans must give up certain things in order to win a race, so christians must be prepared to give up certain things in order to be all that God created them to be.
A careful distinction should be made between the prize and the gift. The free gift of justification cannot be the result of good works. However the prize or crown is the reward for endurance and suffering for the cause of Christ.
In the race that we run it's not about how we start off that matters or even the journey, but it's how we end the race that counts. Our vision should be on a spiritual goal. There is no end to our training until we receive the crown. we shouldn't believe with a lazy presumption that God will take care off everything. No effort means no victory.
The spiritual athlete knows that their continual choices of good over bad will make them grow and flourish and that it requires suffering.
2 Timothy - An athlete who runs in a race cannot win the prize unless he obeys the rules.
A christian cannot allow themselves to do some of the things the world does because of their commitment to spiritual discipline.
Michelle Cozins
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