24/12/2023
Devotion: Obtain the prize
The bible says in 1 Corinthians chapter 9 from verse 24 to 27 that “ Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
Some people run in a race for fun whereas others run to obtain the prize. There is a huge difference between the two. Those who run for fun are casual in their approach and they don’t mind whether they win or not. Those who aim at the prize are business minded and they are focused to get the prize. They put in more effort and they don’t allow distractions to stop them. In your Christian walk, whatever you are involved in, learn to run it and get a prize at the end. Don’t have a casual approach. Have a business mindset.
This is the reason why the Spirit through the Apostle Paul continues to say that the one who wants the prize is temperate. To be temperate is to exercise self-control. That is one of the secrets to win. Learn to discipline yourself in your Christian walk. Refrain from some things that may distract you in your race.
In Hebrews chapter 12 verse 1 the bible says: “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, 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.”
There is a race set before you that you must win. Therefore, lay aside all distractions which include sin and every weight and run to obtain the prize. Press on towards the goal and don’t allow to be distracted.
In Philippians chapter 3 verse 14, the bible says :“I press toward the goal for the prize of th