24Do you not know that all the runners in a stadium compete, but only one receives the prize? So run to win.
25Each competitor must exercise self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.
26So I do not run uncertainly or box like one who hits only air. 27Instead I subdue my body and make it my slave, so that after preaching to others I myself will not be disqualified.
INTRODUCTION
Running on treadmill is one of the best ways to shade off fats and flatten belly. Aside from convenience it offers, running on it in gyms keeps you away from pollution, hazards and dangers on the road.
Many Christians today tries to keep their “spiritual fitness” indoors and without real goals or targets. Apostle used the analogy of running for our Christian life.
"Do you not know that all the runners in a stadium compete, but only one receives the prize? So run to win."
I. Run to Win, 24
A. Run to compete
B. Run with objectives
“Believers are All runners in competition.”
"Each competitor must exercise self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one."
II. Run For Eternal crown, 25
A. Run with Self-control
B. Run for imperishable crown
“Believers win for God’s glory.”
"So I do not run uncertainly or box like one who hits only air. Instead I subdue my body and make it my slave, so that after preaching to others I myself will not be disqualified."
III. Run in real race, 26-27
A. Run with Perseverance-”beating the body”
B. Run according to rules--OBEDIENCE
“Believers finish the race with dignity.”
CONCLUSION
“Fresh start”, as we have said last Sunday. Yes, God has once again placed us in the starting line. 2015 is just another lap in our lifetime race of faith.
God wants us to hit the real dirt road and go out of comfort zone and convenience. Live for Jesus all the way even if it will put us in harms way and ridicules. Let us all persevere and finish the race heads up. God is waiting at the finish line.
