“Don’t you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away. Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified.”
-1 Corinthians 9:24-27
All through the NFL playoffs, I spent much time scanning the various channels and listening to the experts’ analytical approaches to each matchup: who was going to win, who should win, who won't win and why it was important to win at all. When it comes to what is truly important, I think of the FCA Coaches Mandate, which offers a different take on importance.
After reading this, the concept takes on a different meaning, depending on where you are in your life and your faith. Read it here.
I coach football myself, and one thing I dislike is the "importance" placed on the score. The kids I coach are in the 8- to 10-year-old range. My emphasis regarding what truly matters is not so much the score as what it says in the mandate: "Be satisfied not with producing a winning record, but with producing winning athletes." Looking at everything in life—including competition—is about seeing it through the eyes of a Christian.
Today, keep in mind that when the clock hits 0:00 and the game is over life continues. Keep in mind 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and compete in such a way as to win the eternal prize.
1. What is important to you in competition?
2. Do you value earthly victories over eternal ones?
3. What does it look like to “win” for Christ in athletics?
Matthew 6:19-21
Matthew 6:33
Philippians 3:13-14
