The Christian Race

by Albert England

A successful athlete or team must go through rigorous training. The military has weeks of basic training for every soldier and continual training for the duration of his military career. This is done in order to develop and improve skills. Christians are to condition themselves for the race that offers the greatest reward upon completion.

Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:24�27 speaks of those running in a race, but only one receives the prize. In the Christian race all who run successfully will receive the crown. The Christian runner exercises self-control in order that they may not receive a perishable crown, but one that never fades away. Paul had great confidence in the Christian race. He was convinced of the certainty of the victory. To be a winner required discipline of the body and mind. There are some things that must be turned aside in order to be a winner. The Hebrew writer states, �Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.� Hebrews 12:1-2. We must never loose focus of Christ � the one for whom we are running.

In the face of hardship and persecution we are made stronger for the race. (see Philippians 1:12-14). Paul emphasizes the importance of not concentrating on the past. He says, �I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.� Philippians 3:13 -14.
In the field of athletics there are rules to govern the games. The Christian rules are revealed by Christ in His New Testament. Paul states that he was holding fast to the word in order that he would not run in vain. Phil 2:16. He wanted to be a sure runner.

Many begin the race but do not endure to the finish line. It is not always easy, but it has its reward. Paul has great words of encouragement for each one in 2 Timothy 4:7�8: He had fought the good fight, finished the race, kept the faith (played by the rules), and he was expecting to be crowned. The crown is not only reserved for the apostle Paul, but for all who successfully run the race.

• Show Up Ready to Compete - Mar 18, 2007
• Keeping the Faith - Jun 12, 2005
• Pressing Toward Mark - Feb 21, 1999
• Athletes are Injury Prone - Oct 16, 1994