Avoiding Disqualification! (part 1 of 2)

There are some who have won a competition, only to have that honor stripped from them because it was determined they had cheated either by breaking the rules or using drugs to enhance their ability. Rules for competition are established to level the playing field for all participants. The same expectations are there for everyone so that personal ability will be exerted and seen for what it is. Thus, in the preparation and training for the competition, everyone has an equal chance to compete and win.

Perhaps we could say the greatest contest in which we could engage is the one for eternal life. Satan wars against us. The world under his power tries to hold us back from becoming what God desires us to be. Though we ought to be thankful for God's great grace and mercy by which we are saved, we still need to put forth our best effort to press on faithfully in Christ.

In Paul's second letter to Timothy he stated. . .
"(5) An athlete is NOT CROWNED UNLESS HE COMPETES ACCORDING TO THE RULES." ( 2 Timothy 2:5 ESV)

To gain victory in this life there are rules God has provided for us to keep in mind. No cheating. No cutting corners. No bribing of officials is possible. We are to train and run to win! May we keep our sight set on the "crown of righteousness" ( 2 Timothy 4:8) to be awarded to us when we have crossed the Heavenly finish line.

Have a great day FOCUSED ON VICTORY WITH CHRIST!
Carl

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