Are we truly doing all we can to push ourselves to have an edge?Today's Scripture:
I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.
1 Corinthians 9:27
Today's Word:I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.
1 Corinthians 9:27
The people of Corinth knew all about the self-discipline it takes to become a top athlete. Every two years, the city of Corinth held the Isthmaian Games, similar to the Olympics in Athens. Potential athletes trained hard for ten months. If they didn't complete the training or if they broke the rules, they were disqualified from participating in the prestigious competition.
The apostle Paul wanted his readers to understand the same principle was true when it came to going the distance in life. He filled the ninth chapter of his first letter to the Corinthians with boxing and running illustrations that allude to Isthmian Games. But verse 27 lies at the heart of the passage. It explains why self-discipline is crucial for Christians. When God asks you to do something, you want to be spiritually up to the task. You don't want anything to get in the way of your success. That includes any bad habits uncontrolled passions, or lazy attitudes.
If you're going to be spiritually mature, you have to control your body and its appetites.
Through sheer self-effort, you can discipline your body for athletic competition. Disciplining your body and your soul for spiritual challenges is only possible with God's help. Ask God to show you if there is any area where your lack of self-control could interfere with what he wants you to do. Use Paul's words as an inspiration to gain better discipline in that area.
Selah people' and friends like a star athlete who leaves fans disillusioned by acting inappropriately, a Christian who behaves inappropriately can turn others away from God. May we let Paul's words remind us that undisciplined words or actions can have serious consequences.
Our Prayer For Today:
"May we remember to not get caught napping with our guard down which lead to a knockout or submission in the fight. When we prepare for the worst the best will always overcome. Join me as we continue to discipline our body and soul for the challenges that will come our way. In Christ service may we gain our victory and triumph over all evil."
In Christ service,
Patrick
Rev Patrick Muston, Senior Pastor
Selah Christian Church
Four Oaks, NC
http://selahchurch.com
Recent revival sermon:
http://selahchurch.tripod.com
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