Reaction, Mindset, Goal, and Accountability
Running the Race to Win and Fighting the Fight for the Knockout Blow
Paul wrote these letters to the Corinthians while he was in Ephesus, which is in present-day Turkey, and the recipients were in Corinth, which is in present-day Greece. Around AD 53-55, he encouraged the Corinthians to live disciplined and purposeful lives, much like athletes who train rigorously to win a prize.
So how does this relate to us today? Let’s dive into the verses as they were written, and then explore their equivalence in today’s modern vernacular.
“But everyone striving controls himself in all things. Then those truly that they may receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. So I run accordingly, as not uncertainly; so I fight, as not beating air; but I buffet my body and lead it captive, lest proclaiming to others I myself might be disapproved.” 1 Corinthians 9:25-27
“Everyone who enters an athletic contest practices self-control in everything. They do it to win a wreath that withers away, but we run to win a prize that never fades. That is the way I run, with a clear goal in mind. That is the way I fight, not like someone shadow boxing. No, I keep on disciplining my body, making it serve me so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not somehow be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:25-27
The apostle Paul used sports and competition to draw out a life lesson that was relatable to the Corinthians of those days, as it is relatable to us today. Life, in this case, is compared to an athletic contest and practices. How we perceive these verses will determine if we are just living life as watchers on the sideline, as participants, or for a rewarding life.
Observe the phrase: “Everyone who enters an athletic contest, they practice.”
Though the contest is available, it takes a striving effort for living, lest you become a spectator of life.
Dealing with the four points.
Reaction - We read: “so I fight, as not beating air, or shadowboxing.” Let the reader ask themselves, am I wasting my punches on things that don’t matter? What is your reaction to the things you hear, see, or feel? If it takes effort to move forward in life, shouldn’t you be using that to make progress rather than detract, weaken yourself, and waste your time? A wise boxer doesn’t just punch in open air while in a fight. At times, not all conversations or people need our constant reaction.
Mindset - The word “mindset” is interesting; the mind can be in many places, often. But where is yours set? This will determine your approach to life and living. Thus, the apostle Paul presents the contrast concerning those who are in the contest to win a wreath that withers away or run to win a prize that never fades. What are you running after, eternal life in Christ, or social gatherings and influencers who only showcase parts of themselves they want you to see? At times, we waste our effort to impress others when we could use the time and effort to grow and mature.
Goal - The word “goal” in its early use from the 14th century implies a boundary, limit, and barrier. So, you see, a goal is not only to move forward to a point. But you must have a boundary in what you are willing to do and not to do, a limit in the time you invest in things or others, and a barrier to safeguard your heart for an environment to flourish. With accountability as well.
Accountability - Saying things is one thing, but living it as proof is another. Hence, the apostle Paul said, “I keep on disciplining my body, making it serve me so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not somehow be disqualified.” That is to say, I consistently train and control my body, ensuring it aligns with my goals. This way, after guiding others, I won’t fall short of my own standards.
“Surely you know that many runners take part in a race, but only one of them wins the prize. Run, then, in such a way as to win the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24
Perseverance
Maybe this is all new to you. If so, let this be a new beginning for you: your reaction, your mindset, your goal, and your accountability.
Or perhaps you are aware of all this, but somewhere along the line, you have fallen short. We live in an era where everyone has their own truth. If everyone has their so-called truth, then there is no accountability, and anyone can do what they so desire without consequence, regardless of whether it causes harm to others. In such a time, people have a mind, but it isn’t set in a stable place. Goals are narrowed down to instant gratifications, and reactions are often impulsive rather than consideration of one’s actions.
The apostle Paul again asks this question: “You were running well; who held you back that you do not obey the truth?” Galatians 5:7
In today’s terminology: “You were doing great; what stopped you from following the truth?”
It is time to get back up and follow the truth. “If any of you lack wisdom, ask from God, who gives to all freely and without reproach, and it shall be given to you.” James 1:5
A simple prayer: Lord, I know what I am, and I know what I ought to be. Help me to be the best I can be. Amen.
