Have a Purpose

 ^24(AV)Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives ^(AW)the prize?^(AX)Run in such a way that you may win.

 ²⁵Everyone who ^(AY)competes in the games exercises self-control in all things They then do it to receive a perishable ^(AZ)wreath, but we an imperishable.

 ²⁶Therefore I ^(BA)run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not ^(BB)beating the air;

 ²⁷but I discipline ^(BC)my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Paul explains how foolish it would be to run a race without a goal, a purpose.  It's like getting in our cars in the morning, fighting traffic only to have nowhere to go.  It's important to have a goal, even short-term goals sometimes, so that we have direction along with our purpose.  Our lives as Christians need to be run in the same manner.  When we serve, serve with a purpose.  When we love, love in a way that's all out for Christ.  Our ministry or callings will be called out before the Lord and we need to have won.

I find myself going along the current too many times.  I see myself doing the minimum required instead of really putting effort and sacrificing my selfish ambitions.  In the last 24 hours, how have I served God?  Did I forget Him?  Other than a few prayers here and there I haven't spent much time with Him; and even less time doing something for Him.  I'm terrible at this!  But I know I mustn't dwell on my failures but look to Jesus in my next opportunity.  I have to serve... to win!

Thank You, Father God for Your mercy.  If You judged us by our performance we would fail miserably.  But all You ask of us is to love You with all our heart, mind, soul and body... and that's the race I want to win.