Abundant Life Devotional
By Eric Jinkwen

RUN TO GET THE PRIZE

1 Corinthians 9:24; “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”

In every race, there are rules to follow if one wishes to win a prize. Every athlete must run according to the rules. The same is true with the Christian race; there are rules to follow if one wants to get the prize. Apostle Paul reminds us, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”
Yes! There is a careless way to run and miss the prize and there is a disciplined way to run to get the prize. This requires:

Read Also: Dealing with unforgiveness

(1) Strict Training.

Paul adds that, everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training (V25). How do we train as Christians so that we remain strong in the race? There are spiritual exercises such as prayers and fasting, Bible study, fellowship. Through these, we keep learning the lifestyle that is required of us in the race. What place do you give to prayer, Bible study and teachings in your life? Only discipline runners get the prize. Paul says, earthly runners are trained to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

(2) Discipline yourself by keeping your eyes on the finishing.

Let’s follow the example of Paul. He said, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 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.

What distractions are there in your life that may disqualify you from the prize? What preoccupations are in your mind? Are you concerned only with earthly matters? The race is a spiritual race. It requires discipline in spiritual things. Keep your mind focus on Christ and the kingdom of God. Get rid of all distractions and determine to win the prize.

Check in your life and get rid of ungodly relationships. Abandon all ungodly activities and practices. Discipline your desires. Let Christ alone rule your mind.

Read Also: When the wicked seems to Prosper

Prayer: Father, help me to keep my eyes on you so that I will not run aimlessly. Help me to get rid of all distractions so that I will get the prize. Amen!