Scripture Text: "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible". 1 Corinthians 9: 24-25 (V)

I have heard this same phraseology for candidates declaring their bid for the Whitehouse. I'm going to run, and I'm going to win!

If you believe in something strongly enough you should "run to win". In fact, talk to a  soldier in the armed forces or talk to a policeman or fireman that faced the 911 holocaust, and they will tell you without a blink of the eye, their purpose was / is clear: to save as many lives as possible - no matter what the cost! They have a prize in mind, even if it means their own lives, even if they had to fight with shovels and sticks.

Everything I have mentioned so far speaks to the "spirit" of mankind, to the core of belief that they were created for a purpose - and that they, "one person" can make a difference. They are running to win!

I have a good friend in the Lord whose name is James, and he is fighting off cancer right now, yet, instead of sitting around feeling sorry for himself he gets on the computer and sends out e-cards and emails - "prayers" that bring tears to your eyes, as he . . . in his 60's prays for others. Why? Because it is in his "spirit" to do so. He has his eye on the prize - and he is running to win!

So, what's the matter with you today? Why are you so down, and disquieted in your soul? Walking in the Spirit means that we "...fight the good fight; finish the race; and keep the faith." You won't receive any purple heart or any badge for bravery, but you will receive the crown of righteousness which is given by the Lord Himself. (Ref., 2 Timothy 4:7,8)

Let's Pray:

Help me O Lord to Rise up and be done with the lesser things of life, but help me to give my heart, soul, mind and strength, to serve the King of Kings! In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.

Rise up, O men of God!
Have done with lesser things.
Give heart and soul and mind and strength
To serve the King of Kings.

Rise up, O men of God,
In one united throng.
Bring in the day of brotherhood
And end the night of wrong.

Rise up, O men of God!
The church for you doth wait,
Her strength unequal to her task;
Rise up, and make her great!

Rise up, O men of God!
Tread where his feet have trod.
As brothers of the Son of Man,
Rise up, O men of God!
-- Charles Wesley --