Run in Such a Way to Win the Prize


As long as I can remember, I have always loved the Olympic Games, both summer and winter. I know that there have been a number of controversies regarding the 2024 opening ceremony, and as usual, I think the truth of the matter lies somewhere between the voices of the two extremes. This post is not about the opening ceremonies. This post is about the individuals competing in the Games.

I am always in awe of the remarkable skills on display by the best athletes from all around the world. Every single individual at the Olympic Games has to go through a number of trials and win a series of competitions to even have the opportunity to compete at the Olympics. Of course, some competitors are more naturally capable than others, some have access to better facilities, and some train harder than others. However, they all have one thing in common: they are all trying their very hardest to win the gold medal.

So far, I have watched a variety of Olympic events, from gymnastics to swimming to sailing to BMX bicycle riding, and in every event, I have seen people who are all fighting their hardest to be declared the best in the world. Two individuals have really stood out to me:

First is Stephen Nedoroscik, the American gymnast whose only job was to participate in the pommel horse for the men's team. He was the last person to participate in the event, and it was obvious that he gave everything he had to help his team earn a bronze medal. He had a job to do, and he did it to the very best of his ability to win the prize.

Second is Anthony Jeanjean, an French BMX freestyle rider. For context, this event allows each rider 60 seconds to perform as many bike tricks as possible. Each participant gets two chances to earn points out of a possible 100. On his first attempt, Jeanjean wrecked his bike immediately, earning only 3 points, giving him the lowest score of the round. On his second attempt, it was clear that he was not about to give up because of that setback. He absolutely nailed his second run, finishing the competition with over 93 points and a bronze medal.

These are just two of the strong individuals I have already seen participating in this year's Olympic Games, and I know the Olympics are filled with stories of people who are giving their all to win honor for their country. In other words, they know what it means to "run in such a way to win the prize."

I wish I could say the same about my life. There are so many times in my life when I have not given my best try, whether it is for my job, my family, or my God. I don't even want to think about the times that I have ignored the command of 1 Corinthians 10:31:
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory.
If I am truly living for God's glory, then I should run in such a way to win the prize.

Heavenly Father, I am sorry that I do not always do everything for Your glory. Please forgive me for not always giving my best effort, and help me to always remember the prize You have waiting for me at the end of this life, a prize that I cannot earn on my own. Thank you for your mercy and giving me multiple attempts to make corrections. In the forgiving name of Jesus I pray, Amen.



 

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