It is hard to believe that it is time again for the Olympics. I remember as a kid watching and pulling for our country no matter the sport or even if I knew how the sport was played. I wanted the US to win the gold. It is amazing to think about the fact that these types of games were going on during the writing of the New Testament. I think Paul is probably referencing these types of games in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.
Verse twenty-five references the self-control involved in participating in these games. I am thoroughly impressed when I hear about some of the things these athletes go through to prepare themselves for competition. They have to say “no” to so many things because they are going for the gold. They might have to say “no” to a hamburger due to diet restrictions. They might have to say “no” to an event because it interferes with training, and I am sure the list could go on. Then they have to say “yes” to many things. They might have to say “yes” to getting up at four a.m. to practice even if they do not feel like it. They might have to say “yes” to certain exercises because those exercises build the strength or endurance they need even though they are painful. Again, I am sure the list could go on.
So what is the point? Paul is comparing the athlete to the Christian. These athletes practice all kinds of self-control for a perishable wreath. We are going for an imperishable wreath. Since that is the case, how should we live our lives? With self-control. That involves me saying “no” to worldly things even though everyone else seems to be doing them and having a ball. Sometimes it means me saying “yes” to things that are right even when I do not want to do them because they are hard or painful. Let me encourage you today to not give up. Jesus is with His people, and it is worth it.