1 Corinthians 9:25 – an incorruptible wreath

Now every contender is controlling himself in all things; they, indeed, then, that they may be obtaining a corruptible wreath, yet we an incorruptible.

Who participates in a game has to control himself in all respects, in order to succeed. Nothing would be ignored. Night rest, physical activity, condition, training, food; all should be balanced to the purpose. It’s about discipline: doing what you should do. No matter if you like or not.

Sportsmen are prepared to waive everything in order to obtain that one prize. Even for a prize that is only corruptible. That counts for all honour and fame that a human can obtain on the earth. This in contrast to the incorruptible wreath. That is the crown at the end of the ‘running’ that will be given by God.

This incorruptible wreath is not the result of human effort. These were already compared with wood, grass and straw (3: 12). Very perishable. But GOD awards is what He could do in and through us. Where we just see on Him (focussed like an athlete!), He can do his work in our lives. Thát is what’s awarded. Thát is gold!

Delen: