RUN WITH PURPOSE
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10).
It’s important that from time to time, you appraise yourself to be sure you’re focused on that which the Lord has called you to do. Each one of us has a unique purpose and destiny to fulfil in Christ and one day, we’ll give account to the Lord for all that we did while on earth.
According to the Scriptures, those who have done well will receive praise of Him; they’ll be rewarded. That’s why the Spirit, through the Apostle Paul, encourages us in 1 Corinthians 9:24, saying, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”
Life is a race, and in this race of life, you’re to run in such a way as to win the prize. Run with purpose. Don’t live like it doesn’t matter. The Amplified Classic version of the scripture above says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but [only] one receives the prize? So run [your race] that you may lay hold [of the prize] and make it yours.”
Run with the resolve to triumph gloriously and finish your course with joy. Remember part of Paul’s valedictory admonition in 2 Timothy 4:5; he said, “…Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” He could confidently give such inspiring counsel because that was his testimony. He ran with purpose and made full proof of his ministry.
Paul finished his race gloriously and testified, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
We’re on this journey for a more profound purpose. Keep this truth constantly before you and it’ll serve as a guiding light in the way you live your life. Hallelujah!
PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m passionately dedicated and committed to fulfilling your purpose for my life and finishing my course gloriously. I run this race with diligence, living in your Word and guided by your wisdom to produce eternal fruits and works of righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NIV, Colossians 3:23-24, 2 Timothy 4:6-8 AMPC
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 12, Nehemiah 4-6
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 9:1-10, Isaiah 14