Do you like to run? Most of us don’t, yet we need to realize that life is a marathon. One of my favorite Scriptures is 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, “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. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
I paid for college by running the 400 meters (TCU baby!). We ran all the time and trained wisely. My senior year I was asked to run the 400 meter hurdles and I trained with the cross-country guys (big mistake for a competitor). The truth is that Coach suggested that I run in practice quadrangular meets at the University of North Texas. Well not only did I get crushed, but (you’re the first to know) I took a short cut during the event. Sure I was glad to just finish… but my heart, character and integrity was also crushed, humiliated and to this day I feel the shame.
Tragically, today our culture looks the other way at short cuts and quick fixes – and where has it gotten us? Internationally and fiscally we have lost our edge and strength and the results have weakened our reputation. Hard work is a prerequisite for integrity.
Anything of lasting value requires sacrifice, effort and endurance. Our summer staff knows this discipline well. Because of the love for their campers, they choose not to take short cuts in their instructions, listening, and care giving or being a big brother / sister. They are passionate about being what we call a “kid luv’n; Lord serv’n machine” by being totally committed.
Do you want a quick 'A' by cheating or plagiarizing… do you really want to gain a sports trophy by not competing honestly… and you could never make first chair by not practicing. Short cuts are just that – a short cut to experiencing the long term satisfaction of sacrifice, discipline and character. Don’t cheapen your prize by choosing the easy road.
“Run in such a way as to get the prize” – prize of “Well done good and faithful servant, enter into my rest.” Matthew 25:21
Have you listened to Johnny's audio version of this message?? It's at the top of this message...check it out!
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