“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” I Corinthians 9:25-27 ESV
If you are like me, being disciplined is a daily battle. Some days it seems more like a failing effort than a successful lifestyle. But I believe Paul gives us two insights into discipline that we can all use:
- Motive. Athletes have a goal in mind, and push towards that goal every day. Personally I relate to this, seeing as I love weightlifting. But Paul encourages us to look beyond this life for the motive of our discipline—to something that will indeed last forever.
- Community. Athletes don’t train alone. I work out daily, but it’s much easier to get up in the morning when I know someone else will be there training alongside me. As Christians, we should train alongside one another in unity to grow in our relationship with God.
God has given us a heavenly goal and put us in His church to help us walk in a manner worthy of the gospel. Please pray for us as we seek to teach our men the spiritual value of discipline, in addition to the physical value.
Striving for Christ,
2Lt. Matthew Moody | Unit 57
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