Scripture
All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away but we do it for an eternal prize.

Observation
Paul uses a sports analogy to drive home the point about living whole-heartedly for Christ.

The Christian walk is like a race. Everyone competes for a prize but only one person wins the prize.

Athlete give it all- training, discipline, commitment, work- all for a trophy. We are running for an eternal prize.

Therefore we must disciple ourselves in order to run the race and not be disqualified.

Application
In the verse before this, Paul says, “I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.”

Faith is not a game. The walk with Christ is not a show or entertainment piece, like shadow boxing as Paul calls it.

No we are in full-time, grand-final match play. This is the real event.

Just as professional athletes are either training or competing at any given time, we need to have that full-on attitude.

Does this activity draw me toward or away from Christ?

Does that job opportunity help me or hinder me in my work for Jesus?

Everything we do must be seen in the light of the eternal prize.

Prayer
Father, please help me draw near to you very day. Help me to orient my whole life around your plan for me. Amen.