The Great Annual Race

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Philippians 3: 13-14

Hebrews 12:1-2

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

The Bible compares the Christian life to a race.

1.      Each year we run another leg of the journey.

2.      Each year brings us closer to the goal.

 

All runners long to win.

 

What do we need to win the race?

 

       I.            WE NEED DISCIPLINE TO RUN THE RACE  (1 Cor. 9:24-27)

    1. Astronauts said to have the right stuff.

1.      They are chosen carefully.

2.      They go through rigorous training.

3.      They become disciplined people.

    1. Believers must also be disciplined.

1.      Disciplined in devotional life.

2.      Disciplined in what we think.

3.      Disciplined in what we say.

4.      Disciplined morally.

    1. We must achieve self control.

1.      “Temperate in all things”

2.      This comes from the Holy Spirit  (Gal: 5:21-23)

    1. We must be led by the Spirit, not by the flesh.

 

     II.            WE NEED DIRECTION TO RUN THE RACE  (Phil. 3:13-14)

    1. We cannot win by looking back.

1.      “Forgetting those things which are behind”

2.      Leaving the past behind.

3.      Forgetting old wrongs and wounds.

4.      Forgetting old sins and slip-ups.

    1. “Reaching forth unto those things which are before”

1.      Seizing opportunities to serve Christ.

2.      Stretching forward with anticipation.

3.      Eagerly welcoming all spiritual challenges.

    1. Pressing “toward the mark.”

1.      Making the best use of time for service.

2.      Always living for the glory of God.

3.      Always expecting the Lord’s return.

4.      Living with et4ernal rewards in mind (the prize.)

5.      Rewards received at the upward calling  (Rev. 22:12)

 

 

  III.            WE NEED TO BE DRESSED FOR THE RACE  (Hebrews 12:1-2)

    1. “Lay aside every weight”

1.      Runners dress lightly.

2.      No extra weight to slow them down.

    1. What weights have been hindering your progress?

1.      Have you been weighed down with cares?

2.      Have you been unwilling to forgive?

3.      Have you been encumbered by negativism?

4.      Have you been slowed by fears?

    1. Winners lay aside weights that drain their energy.

 

CONCLUSION:

 

How are you doing in the great annual race?

Rewards for winners will make every effort worthwhile.

It will be worth it all when we see Christ.