1 Corinthians 9: 24-27 (ESV) “Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
The disciple’s walk is not necessarily based on victories but on determination. Let me explain. There will be days when you just don’t feel like reading your bible. There will be days when everything you do is outside God’s will. And there will be days of total failure. I’ve had plenty of days without one single victory. And that hurts! But do I quit? I lived totally outside God’s will for 30 years. But through His mercy He brought me back to Him. So, quitting is not an option for me.
Life is full of failure, even for the determined one. When you know that you have disappointed God, what do you do? The Father has many names. One is steadfast love and faithfulness. It’s all throughout the Old Testament. It means His love is firm, fixed and will never stop. Also His patience and mercy have no end. These gifts are available to the repentant one. You will find out that repentance does not only happen one time when you decide to place your trust and faith in Christ. If you are fighting the fight, it most likely will be a daily event. Repentance is not only being sorry, but it involves getting back up off the ground, dusting yourself off, and saying, “Let’s try that again.” That is the life of a determined disciple.
One more thing: Maturity does not come from works. It comes from the Holy Spirit working with the one who buries his or herself in the grace of Jesus. Christ has the authority and power to keep those who love Him held tightly in His arms. And He will never let you go or let you down. Keep your heart, mind, and soul concentrated on the Lord and He will get you through anything and everything.
Amen?
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