Running to win!
Scripture reading for July 17: 1 Corinthians 9
“To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the Gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:22-27
Paul explained to the believers at Corinth how he viewed ministry in their culture. He had explained how he had a right to receive support from them as he ministered among them. However, he did not take any support, but worked to support himself so that he would not cause any to stumble. He was not preaching for money or as a job that supported him. His reward was seeing souls saved and in heaven for eternity. These eternal blessings would be shared by all. His world-view enlarged his perspective and motivation and daily actions.
Paul also sought to reach the most people. He did this by identifying with those to whom God sent him. He got down where the people were and learned to speak their language and understand how to reach them. He stated that he “became all things to all people that he might win some.” He likened his daily walk as a race in which he was running for the prize. In the world, runners raced for a laurel wreath given to the victor. Paul was looking for the eternal reward of the crown of righteousness and enjoying Jesus with the redeemed saints.
Do you find that each day’s short term needs are a primary subject of your thinking? How does Paul’s world-view challenge you to change your focus? In what ways do you need to bring your body and mind under self-discipline to focus on eternal things?
Prayer: Father God, I am challenged by this passage of Scripture and the example of Paul the Apostle. Help me to develop a world-view that focuses on sharing the Gospel of Jesus to those around me. Help me to discipline my body and mind and live effectively as a witness of Jesus Christ and enjoy eternal life with Jesus. Amen.
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