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By Van Sprague

Games like the Olympics have been going on for nearly three thousand years. Running was part of the first competitions. Paul used this familiar sport to illustrate the effort, self-control, and focus required to run the race of faith.

The Christians in Corinth would have known about the Isthmian games. Like today, there was only one winner for any competition for individuals. While everyone who finishes our spiritual race faithfully will win, the apostle Paul still encouraged the Corinthians to run as if there was only one winner (1 Corinthians 9:24). He certainly didn’t mean that children of God should be competitive with one another, but that we should put forth every bit of the effort we can, like an athlete who is giving their all to win.

For ten months before, the competitors of these games separated themselves from their families and submitted to a coach who would put them through rigorous training and enforce special diets. Such strict temperance was justified, to them, by the glory of winning. They would receive honor and a wreath of leaves. Paul highlighted this fact to make a point. If they practice such tremendous discipline to win a crown that will crumble, how much more should we practice self-control, if we run for a crown that will never fade (1 Corinthians 9:25)?

The apostle explained that the incredible stakes are why he made sure he ran with the finish in mind (1 Corinthians 9:26). We need to take care not to be distracted by the temporary pleasures of this world, look back at the mistakes of our past, or stumble over present temptation, but look to Jesus. He guides our course. Having run before us, he stands on the other side of the finish line (1 John 2:15-17; Hebrews 11:24-26; 12:1-2).

When sprinters near the finish, they will not slow down. They run, leaning through the finish line. In your race of faith, don’t get distracted. Don’t recline. Lean through the line!

Van Sprague is an evangelist at the Church of Christ at Houston Park. He has a wife and three children. Come Visit! Sunday morning Bible class is at 9, with worship after, at 10 and 5 pm. Wednesday night Bible class is at 6.