The apostle Paul knew a great deal about athletes. It seems he was a sports fan, and likely attended the Olympic-style games held regularly in the region of Corinth. Look how he encouraged the members of the Corinthian church to excel in their faith:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. So they do it to obtain a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way as not to run aimlessly; I box in such a way, as to avoid hitting air; but I strictly discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

Back in the day athletic competitions in Greece drew large crowds. People understood the discipline necessary for athletes to compete successfully. Paul wrote to fellow enthusiasts who understood his metaphors. Box with purpose, discipline the body, run to win. Paul preached an intensity more in line with an elite athlete than a weekend warrior.

Which makes me ponder the vigor with which I follow Jesus. Am I a spare timer who lounges on the couch all week and only gets in the game on Sunday? Or do I occasionally workout, yet continue to fill my belly with mental junk food? Paul encouraged a serious approach. Making my body my slave pushes me into a different lifestyle than merely jogging to maintain weight.

Over the years I’ve seen multiple disqualifications among ministers and co-workers. The value of discipline, self-control, and a rigorous approach to living as a follower of Jesus cannot be overstated. Time in the Scriptures, prayer, attending a good church and the power of the Holy Spirit all lead toward an enduring prize. Keep training, and the imperishable wreath will be yours.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Photo by Olena Karlyk