RUN IN SUCH A WAY AS TO WIN
Letson McCoy
This past Saturday the youth group at Thomaston Road had another devotional. We always try
to have at least one per month, and this latest one was held at Chad and PJ McGreggor’s. We are
so thankful to have supportive individuals who are willing to open their homes to our teenagers.
As a part of our last few devotionals, we have always had some sort of competition. In January
and February, we had a corn hole tournament at the homes we visited. On Saturday, we had
three other competitive games: air hockey, foosball, and pool. I enjoyed seeing the teens as they
put forth all their effort to make sure they did the very best they could in their competition.
Everyone was focused and did not want to lose. Even the adults were getting into the action of
the competition as we enjoyed the fellowship of being together. Everyone was excited as the
three events on Saturday narrowed down to the final round. In the end, only one winner (or
team) came out victorious.
With the thought of competition on my mind recently, I could not help but remember the words
of Paul who wrote, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives
the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. And everyone who competes in the games
exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an
imperishable. Therefore, I run in such a way, as not without aim…” (1 Cor. 9:24-26; NASB).
These verses let us know that Paul and the church at Corinth were familiar with competition.
They knew what needed to be done in order to win a race. Self-control and discipline were
necessary parts of any competitor’s regimen. Hence, each person had an end goal and aim in
mind to always try to win.
When Paul wrote these thoughts, he had in mind a spiritual application. The point is that all
Christians are in a spiritual race to receive an imperishable reward, a home in heaven with
Christ forever. Christians must be diligent in their spiritual lives. Giving up or not doing their
best to grow in Christ is unacceptable (Phil. 3:1-17). Self-control and other attributes of the
Spirit are continually pursued by those who want to win spiritually (Gal. 5:22-26). Christians are
individuals who fight the good fight, finish the course, and keep the faith (2 Tim. 4:7-8). In all
things, Christ and His desires are sought all along the running path of life (Heb. 12:1-3).
As you run the spiritual path, always endure and look to Christ who will carry you through. Live
with a purpose and run in such a way that you will win. The wonderful news is that victory is
confirmed for all who stay faithful until the end (Rev. 2:10). What a wonderful time to look
forward to in heaven with God for all eternity!