FCA: The Relentless Devotional For CompetitorsSample

Run Your Race Steve Beckerle 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: It was dubbed as one of the most dramatic wins in the 25-year history of the USA Cycling Professional Road Race Championship. In September 2010, at the 115 mile Greenville Cycling Championship, Ben King became the youngest rider to win the event. Ben made a move early in the race that paid off big. Strength in numbers is definitely true with cycling; you cover ground faster and with less effort in a group. But that day, Ben was determined to ride his own race. In the first eight miles, Ben broke free from the pack. Halfway through the race, Ben had gained an astonishing 15-minute lead! Although the pack fought hard to catch back up to Ben, it proved to be too late. Ben knew that breaking away early was going to be tough, but he knew it was his best chance of winning. It took serious self-control, discipline and a hunger to win. Just like relationship with Christ, we have to stay focused, disciplined and show self-control in the everyday things, so when the finish line is upon us, we may win the ultimate prize— an eternity with Him in Heaven. GO: 1. What do you think the “prize” that 1 Corinthians 9: 24 is referencing to? 2. What are the everyday things you struggle in self-control and discipline? 3. Are you being intentional in the “race” of life to win the “prize”? How? WORKOUT: Hebrews 12:11 Galatians 5:22-23 OVERTIME: Father, help me to keep my eyes on You, break free from the pack and run my own race towards a strong relationship with You.