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| God Loves You |
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training, they do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 NIV.
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| Run for the prize. 1 Cor 9:24 |
LIFE FOR THE CHRISTIAN
The Christian life is like a race, but it does not need to be a frustrating rat race. Yes, it is hard and to win a race you have to train with self-discipline. You need to expend energy and effort to remain focused and keep the goal ahead of you. This is counter to our modern way of life where we have a do as you please attitude, and a live for the moment philosophy.
ENEMIES
The believer has at least three enemies: the world, the flesh, and the devil. As we battle our enemies we should ask ourselves these questions.
* How are we doing in our battle against the flesh with its appetites and lust?
* Do we surrender the battle and give up the rewards that victory will bring?
* For the sake of a few minutes of sleep forfeit morning devotional time with the Lord?
* Or for the sake of an entertainment event skip fellowship with believers?
* Do we choose relaxation over service?
Too many have exchanged the blessings of heaven for the wreath of fading leaves.
THE PRIZE
In a race, only one gets the prize- this reminds us that if we are not diligent we will miss out. We still finish the race but second place does not win the crown. The prize is not salvation since the Bible does not teach our works save us but only our faith, the prize is the reward for a life lived unto the Lord. We who trust Jesus will finish and get a reward but it is how we run that race now that determines if our reward then will be gold and silver or wood, hay, and stubble.
TOTAL COMMITMENT
An athlete who faces competition does not let himself get fat and flabby; he gets exercise, rest and healthy food. He brings lifestyle into the process and weighs his actions in the balance of his goals. He dedicates his body and time to the goal- even though that goal is only a temporary reward of a few mentions in the news or a trophy that will collect dust and end up in a yard sale. How much more should we who know and love God and have a hope in heaven bring our lives under control for the eternal rewards God has promised us?
To learn more about the plan of salvation follow this link: click here.
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Adron
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(c)Adron Dozat
