How to Run the Race and Win the Crown of Life

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, October 18, 2022
And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.
2 Timothy 2:5 (NKJV)

I love watching athletics. When the bell for the last lap rings, I jump on my feet as I cheer my favourite star. As they runners come towards the finishing line, I cannot help but shout at the top of my voice. Finally, when my preferred athlete wins, I celebrate as if I am the actual winner.

As a fan or spectator, though, I am likely to forget that behind a successful race are hours of rigorous training, self-discipline and perseverance. Further, the race itself demands adherence to rules and regulations of the sport. A medal is just the tip of the iceberg.

Competing According to the Rules

Still, athletics is not immune to controversy. Over the years, race organizers have had to strip many athletes of their medals because of doping and infringement of other racing rules. It is unacceptable to gain unfair advantage on other competitors.

While comparing salvation to a race, Paul told Timothy, “And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.” (2 Timothy 2:5). It is not enough to prepare for the race. One must adhere to the rules.

Adhering to the Rules of the Sport

It is interesting how Christians want to run the race of salvation according to their own rules instead of following God’s commandments. We want to receive the crown without carrying the cross. We desire to gain but eschew concomitant pain.

Professed believers want to travel on the wide road that leads to hell while assuming it is the narrow path that leads to heaven. We cherish sin in our hearts and expects to enter a new world without sin.

How to Run the Race and Win the Crown on Life

To attempt to get the crown of life without adhering to the will of God is an exercise in futility. God and Satan cannot share the throne in our hearts. It is either one or the other – not both – that must own and control our thoughts, feelings, words and actions.

Do you desire the crown of life? Are you competing according to the rules?

Prayer
Lord Jesus, I want the crown of life. Instill in me the will and discipline to adhere to Your commandments.