Run To Win!

I think most of us have some goal, or sense of aspiration, something that we want to work toward. It's good if we do, and if we don't we should set some time aside and really think about it. What is it that we would really like to do or to bring about in our lives? Then see what steps we can take toward making it a reality.  The Bible gives us a clue of the kind of attitude that will be helpful not only in reaching our goals, but in our spiritual lives also. First Corinthians reads," Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable."   

When it comes to working toward our goals, we know to stay focused and not let distractions and setbacks get in the way and dull our resolve. We press on, diligently working. This same kind of attitude and volition should be even more evident when it comes to our walk with the Lord Jesus. As Christians we know that there is a reward someday. We know that the day will come when our lives and all of history will be finished and we will stand before the Lord of all creation. The awareness of this coming day can be something that spurs us onward to greater service, deeper holiness, and a broader perspective on the condition of the world around us.  We should run to win.

Paul was a great Apostle, sent by Christ to preach His word and establish churches throughout that region of the world.  He was faithful in that calling and endured many hardships in it's fulfillment, yet was not deterred from his goal and mission. Why? Partly because he knew the day was coming when the reward of long years of service would be gained.  He knew that someday his sorrows and tears of endurance would be turned to joy and glory as his prize was granted.  The great Apostle ran to win.

The best investment we can make with our lives is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and to follow Him in service and obedience. If we give the same diligence to our spiritual lives as we do to the temporal goals of this world, we will find a level of satisfaction and contentment that nothing can shake. Our striving in faith will bring everything about our lives to serve one noble goal-to know Jesus and the power of His resurrection. That is a worthy goal and an excellent return for our time effort.

Don't just coast along in life. Don't just run because everyone else is running. Run to win!