Power over flesh
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. I Cor 9: 24-27 KJV
Paul uses two metaphors to describe the Christian and Christianity, the runner and the fighter, to help us better understand our roles as children of God.
The apostle compares himself to the racers and combatants of the Isthmian games, well known by the Corinthians. But in the Christian race, all may run so as to obtain. Those who ran in these games were kept to a strict diet: a strict regime of hardship and practice of the exercises.
He outlines the danger of yielding to fleshly desires, pampering the body, and it lusts and appetites. Holy fear of himself was needed to keep an apostle faithful: how much more is it needful for our preservation!
Those who pursue the interests of their souls must engage in hard combat with fleshly lusts; the body must not be suffered to rule. This greatly encourages us to persevere with all our strength.
Let us all learn with humility and caution, and to watch against dangers that surround us while in the body.
Prayer Focus
Father Lord, set me on a right definite goal ,which is in line to Your glory, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by Dennis Aygeman of @thelafamly