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Although the modern Olympics are modeled on the sporting contests of ancient Greece, the historic images of stripped-naked contestants and the laurel-wreath prizes remind us that that epoch is far removed from ours. But the Apostle Paul was part of that epoch. So drawing on the Greek contests as a metaphor for the Christian life was a natural. In the passage we look at today, he cites running and boxing events, and refers to the qualifying rules and the prizes.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

1. What is the prize-both future and current—that the Christian is striving to win?
2. Why will being a grandstand spectator or engaging in moderate warm-ups not get me to my goal?
3. What are elements of a comprehensive spiritual training regimen?
4. To achieve a breakthrough, what step of self-discipline or denial will be required of you?
5. What could be the "disqualifying" results of breaking training?

Ask God to give you the motivation, resolve, and endurance to stay in training, prepared to deal with any attack or tackle any ministry opening.

24 Remember that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize. You also must run in such a way that you will win.25 All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 26 So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step. I am not like a boxer who misses his punches.27I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, I want to become a disciple You can count on; grant me self-discipline to get started.

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