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…

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗜𝗦𝗗𝗢𝗠 𝗢𝗙 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗕𝗦: 𝗕𝗘𝗬𝗢𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗛

Proverbs 15:13 tells us, A joyful heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

The passage is self-explanatory, yet a closer look reveals valuable lessons.

The first is the contrast between joy and sorrow. In our modern world, people often accept sadness as a justification for withdrawing from their surroundings, believing it will lead to healing. Unfortunately, this isolation can deepen sorrow and break the spirit.

The "joy" mentioned in Proverbs comes from repentance, the turning away from unproductive old ways. Seclusion alone won't bring joy. Reflection and a willingness to change the behaviors that led to isolation are essential.

Overthinking steals joy. When fixated on problems, we lose sight of solutions. Every sigh depletes our energy.

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

Psalms 31:24

The phrase 'Be of good courage. Speaks of' fastening upon, to be constant and be established.

For we know there will be moments when certain things and circumstances will attempt to make you lose faith, and other challenges will inundate your life. Even though you have faith in the Lord, there are moments when you are not constant in your fellowship with Him because other things consume your time more than your walk with the Lord. Consequently, you may find yourself feeling unstable and ungrounded.

But “Be of good courage,” that is, be constant and established. Therein lies the promise: the Lord shall strengthen your heart. For His mercy’s sake, as your hope remains in Him.

Those who encounter love in the fullness of their years, having never basked in its glow, are confronted with their deepest fears upon its unveiling. The terror of losing this newfound treasure transforms them into their own adversaries, besieged by a tempest of worry and anxiety.

Based on the painting; Fragile Yet Unshattered: The Journey of Two Souls

Though the past remains unchangeable, your future holds the promise of a blank canvas. It is pristine and unmarked, offering a realm of endless possibilities. By embracing the lessons of the past in the present moment, you chart a course forward, guided by the lantern of wisdom, towards a horizon of new beginnings.

In such newfound wisdom, trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗯𝘀 𝟯:𝟱-𝟲

One thing that is always present with you is your awareness. Where there is awareness, may you use the right discernment. Knowing where I am is not where I want to be in my life. Considering it is our actions, and our will, which at times usually placed us in such a place. Even then, let your desire be, ‘Lord, help me, hear me.’ When we know the danger of our situation, the honest is our prayer.

To this we pray. In like manner we say:

Hear me speedily, O Lord: my spirit fails: hide not Thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.

Psalm 143:7

Self-help falls short. Embrace self-awareness to understand your situation. Yet, look beyond your condition and will. Trust in the Lord, acknowledging your limitations, and open yourself to divine guidance, support,…