Read 1 Corinthians 9 Rights of an apostle

And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. (I Corinthians 9:25-27 NKJV)

In every field of discipline, we see people excel. Whether in sport or education, businesses or relationships there is a price to pay to achieve the goals set. This price involves the focus of the goal and avoid distractions or forgoing of other things. Here Paul likens us in a race as believers.

The Race - Paul used the metaphor of sport for our journey of faith. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Hebrews

The Reward Paul contrasts the crown the winner will receive as temporal to ours which is eternal. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. (II Timothy

The Rule - There are rules toward getting the prize. Those who run must keep on the tracks, those who wrestle must stay on their feet and those who box must punch rightly. We are running the race and focusing on Christ keeps us on track, And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (II Timothy

The Regiment it calls for discipline of the body. He brings his body into subjection as he mentions, If others are partakers of this right over you, are we not even more? Nevertheless we have not used this right, but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ. (I Corinthians 9:12 NKJV) He labor at his own expense. He identified with those he was serving making himself servant to all (I Corinthians 9:7, 17, 19, 22)

The Rejection failing to abide by the rule and regiment, one will be disqualified and rejected. It comes when there is no longer any conviction of sin, complacency, compromise and become critical and competitive after the flesh.

Prayer: Lord You are my pacesetter and I pursue You as Your Spirit empowers me than shall I not run in vain or fight aimlessly.

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