Determined To Win Series

DETERMINED TO WIN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Supporting Texts: Philippians 3:13-14, 2 Timothy 4:7, Romans 8:37, Hebrews 12:1-2, Proverbs 24:16

INTRODUCTION:

The Christian life is a race. But unlike earthly races, this one has eternal rewards. Many people start the race with zeal, but along the way, distractions, challenges, and trials arise that can slow them down or cause them to quit. Only those who are determined to win will endure to the end.

Determination is not based on physical strength but on spiritual conviction and an unshakable focus on Christ. The Apostle Paul compared the Christian journey to a race that demands discipline, perseverance, and a refusal to give up regardless of obstacles.

God never promised us a life free of struggles, but He assured us of victory if we hold on in faith. This teaching will encourage us to press on, no matter the resistance, because in Christ, we are more than conquerors.

1. BE FOCUSED ON THE PRIZE

Staying focused on the eternal reward keeps you from being distracted by temporary discomforts and trials.

a) Eyes on the goal

Do not allow earthly things to shift your eyes from the heavenly crown.

(Philippians 3:13–14)

b) Run with purpose

Every step of your life must be intentional and aligned with God's purpose.

(1 Corinthians 9:26)

c) Resist distractions

Many fall because they lose sight of the goal and get entangled with the affairs of this world.

(2 Timothy 2:4)

d) Remember the reward

An incorruptible crown awaits those who finish well.

(2 Timothy 4:8)

Biblical Example: Apostle Paul

Paul finished his course with joy because he maintained focus on the crown of righteousness. (2 Timothy 4:7–8)

2. ENDURE THE DISCIPLINE OF THE RACE

Winning the race of life requires consistent discipline and sacrifice.

a) Train your spirit

Spiritual growth comes from intentional habits like prayer and the Word.

(1 Timothy 4:7–8)

b) Say no to the flesh

Discipline demands you deny yourself of things that hinder your spiritual race.

(Galatians 5:24)

c) Embrace correction

God disciplines those He loves; don’t despise divine rebuke.

(Hebrews 12:5–6)

d) Be consistent

Spiritual discipline must be daily and intentional to bear fruit.

(Luke 9:23)

Biblical Example: Daniel

Daniel’s disciplined lifestyle in prayer and devotion distinguished him among kings. (Daniel 6:10)

3. REFUSE TO BE DEFEATED BY SETBACKS

Setbacks are not the end; they are setups for comebacks if we remain determined.

a) Rise after every fall

The righteous may fall, but they get back up again.

(Proverbs 24:16)

b) Learn from your mistakes

Every failure is a lesson and an opportunity for growth.

(Romans 8:28)

c) Shake off discouragement

Do not dwell in regret; God can restore lost years.

(Joel 2:25)

d) Speak faith over failure

Your words should align with God’s promises, not your problems.

(Mark 11:23)

Biblical Example: Peter

Peter denied Jesus but came back stronger, becoming a pillar in the early church. (Luke 22:61–62, Acts 2:14)

4. DRAW STRENGTH FROM CHRIST DAILY

Your determination to win must be fuelled by divine strength, not personal effort.

a) Christ is your strength

You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

(Philippians 4:13)

b) Rely on grace, not flesh

God's grace is sufficient in weakness.

(2 Corinthians 12:9)

c) Wait on the Lord

Those who wait upon the Lord renew their strength.

(Isaiah 40:31)

d) Stay connected to Jesus

You cannot bear fruit without abiding in Christ.

(John 15:5)

Biblical Example: Elijah

After exhaustion and depression, Elijah received divine strength to continue. (1 Kings 19:4–8)

5. NEVER QUIT UNTIL YOU WIN

Winners are not those who never face opposition, but those who never quit.

a) Keep pressing forward

Don’t look back; your future is ahead, not behind.

(Luke 9:62)

b) Fight the good fight

Engage the spiritual warfare with determination and faith.

(1 Timothy 6:12)

c) Finish your course

Do not settle for halfway—go all the way with God.

(Acts 20:24)

d) Victory is your portion

In all these things, we are more than conquerors.

(Romans 8:37)

Biblical Example: Job

Despite losing everything, Job never quit—and God restored him double. (Job 42:10–12)

CONCLUSION:

To be determined to win means to run with focus, discipline, endurance, and dependence on God. Life may not always go as planned, but when you refuse to give up, you position yourself for divine victory. God is looking for finishers, not just starters.

When you set your heart to finish strong, grace will be released to help you overcome every obstacle. With Christ on your side, no mountain is too high and no battle is too hard. Stay determined—you will win!

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me a fresh focus on my heavenly prize.

2. Father, help me to remain disciplined in my spiritual journey.

3. I reject every distraction that wants to pull me out of purpose.