Are you enjoying the Summer Olympics currently taking place in Paris? The opening ceremonies in Paris were just amazing. I’m a big Olympics fan. I had the chance to attend the Summer Olympic games when they were in Seoul in 1988. As a kid, I’d be glued to the TV set from start to finish.
Does the Bible mention the Olympics? The ancient games were held from about 800 B.C. to 400 AD. That encompasses much of the Old Testament and all of the New. But, although sports are mentioned in the Word of God, the Olympic Games are not.
One Bible writer mentioned sports more than any other – the Apostle Paul. We don’t know if he witnessed the Olympics, but it’s very probable that he attended the Isthmian Games. They took their name from the isthmus, or land bridge, in Corinth, and we know that Paul was in Corinth at least three times, and once for over two years. In any case, he seems to have had a vivid understanding of sports, and leaves for us these metaphors, these truths.
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.
In Corinthians 9:24-25, these verses from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians are a powerful reminder of the importance of running our race of faith with intention and discipline. Just as athletes train rigorously to win a temporary prize, we are called to train our hearts and minds to pursue the eternal crown that God offers.
Here are some key takeaways:
Intentionality: Don’t just go through the motions of faith. Run with purpose, knowing that there is a goal worth striving for.
Discipline: Spiritual growth requires discipline and training. Just as athletes deny themselves certain pleasures to stay in shape, we may need to make sacrifices to pursue holiness.
Eternal Perspective: The world’s rewards are fleeting. Our focus should be on the eternal crown that God has in store for those who persevere in faith.
Lord, help me to run my race of faith with purpose and discipline. May I not be distracted by the temporary prizes of this world, but may my eyes be fixed on the eternal crown that you offer. Give me the strength to train my heart and mind to pursue you wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
