SCRIPTURE
“If anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules." 2 Timothy 2:5
OBSERVATION
Paul often compared the Christian life to an athletic competition. It requires training, endurance, and hard work. In this verse he reminds me that in order to win I have to play by the rules. I have a choice to enter the game (if anyone competes), but once I do I have to compete according to the playbook. The way this verse is written indicates there are other ways to run but only one that will end up receiving the prize at the finish line.
APPLICATION
I cannot run the race anyway I want. I have to run according to the rules God sets down. If I run without listening to the Coach I don't have a guarantee of the victor's crown. Sometimes its tough to stay on course but there are no shortcuts. If I want to run in God's race I have to run God's way. Ultimately it's about being like Jesus and following his word.
PRAYER
Father, running this race in life can be tough. I want my will to conform to yours so I will receive the victor's crown. Amen.
