24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)
Confession: I hate running. I quietly believe that those who do it, especially those marathon runners, are crazy. Once I received my driving privileges, my need to run became greatly diminished. Yet, every now and again, I choose against my nature and preference to run. The truth is, if I am to maintain a healthy lifestyle, at some point I need to suck it up and do what is counter to my temporary desires.
Another confession: I have never ran and regretted it afterwards, nor have I exercised discipline and wished I hadn’t.
Discipline is rarely easy – often it’s the last thing we wish to do, yet the benefits of denying the immediate is found in everlasting peace of the ultimate. Our discipline is never “aimless” but yields great reward in uncovering what we value and what we are capable of accomplishing.
Today, run with discipline knowing that the prize is on the other side of your preference.
Lord, help us to run with conviction, knowing you are found when we die to ourselves and pursue you in faith. Thank you that you give us the power needed to live disciplined lives.
Matt simon blog 