I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:14 NLT
From the early years, children learn how to compete. When I was a prekindergarten teacher, I was amused when the competition extended to the meal table. If the meal contained small items, the children would count how many items they received their serving to determine who had the most on their plate. As the children became older, the completion remained but the platform changed. Professional athletes live their lives always striving to win the prize. The life of faith has been compared to a race because there is a prize at stake.
As people of faith, our race is similar, but different. Like the professional athlete, there is an opponent in the race. This opponent is not competing to win a prize but to prevent you from obtaining your prize. So the Apostle Paul shared his race mentality; he pressed. When you press, you are not making light contact; you are using pressure and force. In other words, you are using everything inside you to get ahead. When the prize is in front of you, it drives you to press in to get to the end.
How is this race different? In every other race, there is one winner; the first place has room for just one. This race is a community race where the individuals race individually but work together so that each one can obtain their prize. Paul’s strategy was to press. Many athletes who rise the top in their field, press. They are rewarded with trophies, money and accolades. However, with time all these things pass away. In 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Paul gave a testimony as he was nearing the end of his race’ he said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” So like, like Paul, press to the end and receive your reward.
Thought for Today: Friend don’t give up; run to win.
Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.
Victory Walk 