“No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
– 1 Corinthians 9:27
 Often we feel like we should press on because it’s the right and noble thing to do, and while this is true, it’s helpful to be motivated by a prize. Though it’s a bit unorthodox, it can be a source of motivation to think of life as a game; one in which we are competing to win the most precious and valuable reward known to man — worldly contentment and everlasting life with our Lord and Savior.
Interestingly, for thousands of years, competitions, matches, and sports have been a source of entertainment and inspiration to humankind. The Olympic games originated in Athens as many as 3,000 years ago, and wrestling matches in the ancient world preceded that. Today, major sporting events and the evolving legacy of competitive games continue to dominate our culture. But why? Beyond pure entertainment, I believe the answer to this question is that we are all wired to work hard, overcome challenges, and do our very best in order to take the prize. My friend, it’s good to purposefully remember the reward that awaits as you move ahead in the work the Lord has called you to. Blessings will come as you resolve to stay the course and bring your body, mind, and spirit into alignment with the words and ways of Jesus. His hope is an anchor for your soul, and you can count on His constant help while you press on in wisdom and discipleship. As you live every day seeking to emulate your Savior, He will be with you in both the big and small stuff and faithfully usher you closer to your imperishable reward! |
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for calling me to run my race faithfully knowing that you have prepared a reward just for me.
Reflection
Do you live in light of the prize that awaits you on the other side of each and every obstacle?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power online at hourofpower.org/episode.
6 Responses
Amen
AMEN THANK YOU FATHER.
INDEED! AMEN!
I do it because the harvest is great, but the workers are few. So as I learn from what the bible tells me, I share with those the Lord puts on my journey in life. But mostly to be forgiven of my sins, and to be with God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit at the end of the journey. Other then that, if I have any questions, I ask God for the answers, so in all that I do, I do it with the Lord, and not be myself. But for a prize, that is a crown, and the reward, is to be with everyone that crosses the finish line, they made the right choice! Then we will all be with The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit at the finish line. Hearing welcome, well done, you made it! That’s enough for me.
Amen to that!
Thank you for sharing the big picture of life before and after our heavenly journey!