Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? 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 NIV

When we focus on a task, we align everything to reach the intended end.

The NFL draft is a good example. Athletes from all over compete for a shot at the ultimate level of play. For years, these players discipline themselves, hoping to make it to the professional level. They must also be diligent. These two qualities are key, but how can we apply them to our spiritual lives?  

Think Long-Term

Staying purpose-driven means thinking beyond the short term. Just like the athlete whose coach gives him a curfew the night before the big game because he understands the importance of discipline, we too must discipline ourselves. The coach does not want fatigued players who cannot play at their best. Players must also have the diligence to make the right decision.

If we only think about the present, we will miss the bigger picture. When I was growing up, my mother talked about delayed gratification. Having the ability to discipline ourselves to hold out because something more lies ahead is challenging, but important. 

Keep the Goal at the Forefront

Staying purpose-driven means we keep the goal at the forefront.  “Forefront” is the foremost point or place. If our goal is not clear, we don’t know which way we should go. We must define our goal by asking the Lord to make our way clear and give us concise directions. 

Goals dictate athletes’ behaviors, attitudes, and decisions. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NIV reads, “So I run with purpose in every step. I discipline my body like an athlete training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.”

Keep the goal in the forefront. Run with purpose with every step. Everything counts with Christ. The race is not in vain. But there is a reward we are striving for that cannot be obtained in the natural realm. Many benefits come with doing things Christ’s way.

Expect a Reward

Often, we can find ourselves wondering, Lord where are you? I have been faithful and disciplined in this walk and nothing is changing. Don’t lose hope. Be encouraged that the reward is coming. Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season, we shall reap if we faint not.”

Continue doing as you have been doing. Keep praying, keep studying, keep working on your character, keep being kind, and keep doing the work. God sees you, He is checking your heart condition, and He sees our motives. 

Staying purpose-driven must be a lifestyle. When it is, it will bless our marriages and family. Don’t give up. You will see the rewards of staying the course and being purpose-driven.

What is one step you can take to stay purpose-driven?

Heavenly Father, help me to stay the course, keeping purpose-driven in my pursuit of You.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2022: Staying Purpose-Driven: Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: All Rights Reserved