The Competitive Edge

I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.

1 Corinthians 9:27

The people of Corinth knew all about the self-discipline it takes to become a top athlete. Every two years, the city of Corinth held the Isthmian Games, similar to the Olympics in Athens. Potential athletes trained hard for ten months. If they didn't complete the training or if they broke the rules, they were disqualified from participating in the prestigious competition.

The apostle Paul wanted his readers to understand the same principle was true when it came to going the distance in life. He filled the ninth chapter of his letter to the Corinthians with boxing and running illustrations that allude to the Isthmian Games. But verse 27 lies at the heart of the passage. It explains why self-discipline is crucial for Christians. When God asks you to do something, you want to be spiritually up to the task. You don't want anything to get in the way of your success. That includes any bad habits, uncontrolled passions, or lazy attitudes. 

Through sheer self-effort, you can discipline your body for athletic competition. Disciplining your body and your soul for spiritual challenges is possible only with God's help. Ask God to show you if there is any area where your lack of self-control could interfere with what he wants you to do. Use Paul's words as an inspiration to gain better discipline in that area.

Like a star athlete who leaves fans disillusioned by acting inappropriately, a Christian who behaves inappropriately can turn others away from God. Let Paul's words remind you that undisciplined words or actions can have serious consequences.

Source: The 100 Most Important Bible Verses

Pray to God for spiritual maturity, for discipline in the self through his will; not by your wants and desires. Our earthly wisdom is limited and will yield emotional outcomes when push comes to shove. God's wisdom is limitless and always yields love. Without a relationship with God we are subject to unnecessary hardship and sorrow. God created us to love and share love; even when it's not fair. We are not the JUDGE but He is. Let his wisdom and judgement guide your footsteps and actions. ~ MME Team