Crowns that Last

Joshua 18-20; 1 Corinthians 9

“…Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

1 Corinthians 9:24, 25

The crown Paul is referring to was a woven garland, or wreath, made of leaves, twigs, and flowers. This victory-garland was awarded to the victor in the games. The crown symbolized the community’s conference of honor; but, the flowers would quickly fade and the crown itself would not last very long. In the race of faith, tests, or challenges, come through relationships, finances, spiritual warfare, and the resistance of our sinful natures. Those who overcome through continually yielding to Christ’s strength and by learning to stand in their authority in Christ will receive the crown of life, glory, and righteousness in Christ. Theses crowns will last forever. As disciples of Christ, we are always in strict training and the race is long distance.

Are we running the right race fot the right reason?

“Lord Jesus, empower me to run well today, for your glory.”