Champion seed

Monday, September 6, 2021

Champion seed

Don't you know that the competitors in the stadium all run, but only one wins the prize ? Run so as to win it. All the athletes impose all kinds of privations on themselves, and they do it to obtain a crown that will destroy itself ; but we are for an indestructible crown. So I run, but not like an adventure ; I box, but not to beat the air. Rather, I treat my body harshly and discipline it for fear of being disqualified myself after preaching to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

From an early age, some children are passionate about a sport. They do not hesitate to sacrifice their hobbies, their vacations and even, unfortunately, their school results to their passion. But to become a champion, the efforts are enormous. One of the main French football coaches said recently : "We must reaffirm what elite sport demands : rigor, healthy living, giving of oneself".

In the ancient world, especially in Greece, sport already had an important place. The apostle Paul must have observed the games at the stadium, for he accurately uses, in many of his letters, images borrowed from the world of sport. In the verses quoted, he likens the Christian life to an athletic race. He puts forward the same demands as a coach today for someone who wants to win the event. For the Christian, it is about winning the prize for the glory of his Lord whose colors he wears.

Every athlete follows a strict diet. In fact, healthy living is essential : athletes generally refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking, they go to bed early and eat a balanced diet. They know very well that any deviation would pay dearly in the next race. Likewise, the Christian, in order to win the race, demonstrates self-control : he is sober in all areas. He saw it for Christ, not as a constraint, but as a free choice of life. He knows that the prize to be won is worth all the sacrifices : he will receive a crown which he will be happy to lay at the feet of the Lord.

The apostle Paul was not disqualified (reproved). At the end of his life he can say he fought the good fight and finished the race (2 Timothy 4:7).

Young believers, you are at the start of the race ; remember that the Lord sees in each of you a "seed of a champion". It is up to everyone to prove themselves worthy of him !

Source (Pleasing the Lord)