Intentionality

“Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (NIV)

How do you live your life? You can choose to float down lazy river and simply allow the current to take you wherever it wants to go. You can decide to live a life of intentionality and focus your life on God’s agenda. You can live with passion, intensity, and purpose.

Paul was a focused fully devoted follower of Christ. In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul referenced the Isthmian Games that were similar to our modern day Olympics. In our present day Olympics, first place receives a gold medal, second place receives a silver medal, and third place receives a bronze metal. In Paul’s day, only one prize was awarded. That’s why Paul said, “Run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Cor. 9:24).

The Christian life demands discipline, focus, and intentionality. As a follower of Jesus Christ, you must make moment-by-moment decisions to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and to starve the cravings of the sinful nature. You must make a conscious choice to run with purpose and to focus your life on continuing the ministry of Jesus on the earth.

Being spiritually fit mandates being intentional about exercising your spiritual muscles and being intentional about joining God in His activity. Embrace healthy daily spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, journaling, meditating on God’s Word, memorizing Scripture, practicing solitude, and practicing God’s Presence. Give sacrificially to bless and benefit others. Share your testimony of God’s saving grace with others. Splash Living Water by being an irresistible influence for God’s glory!

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Lead Pastor
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