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The Prize

Ready :

"Don't you know that the runners in a stadium all race, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way to win the prize. Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. However, they do it to receive a crown that will fade away, but we a crown that will never fade away. Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified."

- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Set :

All through the NFL playoffs, I spent much time scanning the various channels and listening to the experts' analytical approaches to each matchup: who was going to win, who should win, who won't win and why it was important to win at all. When it comes to what is truly important, I think of the FCA Coaches Mandate, which offers a different take on importance.

After reading this, the concept takes on a different meaning, depending on where you are in your life and your faith. Read it here.

I coach football myself, and one thing I dislike is the "importance" placed on the score. The kids I coach are in the 8- to 10-year-old range. My emphasis regarding what truly matters is not so much the score as what it says in the mandate: "Be satisfied not with producing a winning record, but with producing winning athletes." Looking at everything in life-including competition-is about seeing it through the eyes of a Christian.

Today, keep in mind that when the clock hits 0:00 and the game is over life continues. Keep in mind 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and compete in such a way as to win the eternal prize.