The Ultimate Race
Have you ever participated in any race? The answer to that question is yes. As Christians we run a race everyday. The race we are running is not to obtain an earthly prize. We are obtaining heavenly crowns.
The book of 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 says: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”
These verses are talking about our race. As Christians we can be compared to athletes running a race.
Characteristics of an Athlete:
v Endurance = to carry on through, despite hardships
v Strength = power to rise or remain firm
v Self-discipline = training of oneself, for improvement
v Determination= resolute
v Dedication = Selfless devotion
v Focus = to concentrate
v Perseverance =steady and continued action or belief, usually over a long period and especially despite difficulties or setbacks
As a Christian you must possessall of those Character traits. We must learn to endure throughout our lives. When athletes train they carry on even when they are hurt. As Christians we must learn to carry on even through difficult times. Athletes train hard and practice to obtain Strength. As Christians we must do our training (reading our Bible and praying) In order to obtain spiritual strength. As athletes discipline their bodies and give up certain food to win a race; Christians must be willing and obedient when the Lord is telling us to stay away from sin. Athletes are determined and focused when they compete. As Christians we must be determined and not let anything hinder our goal. We must show dedication to the word of God. As an athlete runs and can not slow down because everyone will run ahead and beat him at his race. We must not let anyone obtain our crown and replace us. As athletes practice to get better, as Christians we must practice to become better Christians. We are running for something of higher value, our crown. I pray we all finish our race as winners and obtain our crowns. Amen.
God Bless.
By:Opeyemi Babajide.
Age: 14 yrs
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