Running “The Race”

   “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me— the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7,8 NLT

           While we slept. the Olympic games were played.   When we got up, the races and events had mostly taken place already.   Do we as Christians sleep while others are running “the race”?    Are we missing out on a medal because we were not prepared for the race?   What is our mission today?

Read:  1 Corinthians 9:24-27      To be a spiritual winner-

I. vs 24,25  Be A Contender

*  you  have to be in the race

            Acts 14:19-24  you can’t contend while lying down

*  there is a huge difference between contenders and pretenders

*  pretenders  are more concerned about image and impressions

*  often settling and being content just for showing up- look at me

*  contenders  strive for excellence and develop through difficulty

*  they are competitive and goal oriented

*  Paul says, if you really want to win in the Christian life, be in the game

            Philippians 3:13,14   press on toward the mark

II. vs 26,27  Be In Training

*  training never stops-  it’s a continual process in our spiritual life

*  everyday, there is always room to grow and exercise

*  what is your motivation for training then?

            Hebrews 12:1,2   there is a huge crowd cheering you on

            2 Timothy 4:1-4  spiritually exercise to motivate others

III.  Be Under Control 

*  self-control is powerful- brings the goal in sight  (relay teams)

            John 6:63  the Holy Spirit gives us the ability

*  Vince Lombardi said, ”winning is a habit, and so is losing”

*  with God all things are possible:

            Jeremiah 29:11  we can expect to win the battles of life

*  do you see 2 or 3 sand traps around every green-

       or,  do you see a green close to every sand trap ?

*  winning is not difficult if you are prepared-  only if you aren't trained

*  Believers say,  show me the problem- I’ll show you my God

*  winners will always pay the price- but will also receive the prize !