Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. I Corinthians 9:24-27 NKJV

Life in this world is a race. Thus, everyone including yourself is running as in a competition. Every athlete shows certain degree of commitment, passion and sacrifice in order to win the trophy.

So, what are you really pursuing? Perishable crown or imperishable crown? What are you passionate for? To what are you committed to? What are you spending your energy, time, money and other resources to obtain? The prize that will fade away or eternal prize?

Lot, the nephew of Abraham ran after the crown in Sodom and Gomorrah, Achan was very much passionate but after the glories and crowns of Ai. Gehazi pursued Naaman, the Syrian only to collect two talents of silver and two changes of garments. Judas also was in the race to receive thirty shekels of silver. Apostles Peter, Paul, James, John and other saints of the old also ran in the race to receive crowns of glory and righteousness that is incorruptible, undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for them.

Where you place SELF in the race will determine what exactly you are pursuing. What you set your eyes  looking at will also determine the type of crown you will receive at the end of your race. May the Lord help you to always look above with faith and hope like Abraham and Moses to the ultimate reward kept in heaven for you. Have a blessed day.

Your brother,

Olufemi Babalola