To Finish Is To Win

1 Corinthians 9:24–27 (NASB95) 24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; 27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

God placed us in the race to finish and to win! Our text gives us five principles about finishing the Christian race.

I. The race requires self-control (25a)

II. The race results in an eternal crown (25b)

III. The race requires purpose and focus (26)

IV. The race requires finishing (27)

V. The race is to be run to win (24)

Call To Action

1. Purpose in your heart to do whatever it takes to follow Jesus

2. Spend time daily in the Word of God

3. Spend time daily talking to God