1 Corinthians 9:24-27 KJV
24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Many Rivalry games for High School or college begins their season playing their rivals to kick off the football season. Where my town in Virginia borders West Virginia, the season begins with a rival game across state lines. It always been the starting game for these two high schools though they are in different states. It is a way the community gets together to compete in one of the most famous sports and to encourage their teens to go have fun. Though football is competition it about bringing the community home to see old friends before the big season gets underway. Though I am not from here originally I can appreciate what it brings to the community.

All competitions should be healthy, but it only healthy for the righteous man. The one that runs the race of faith. Knowing this walk of faith on Christ is important, how we grow in Christ, eat the diet food of faith so we grow good and strong is half the battle. The food of faith needed tovgrow our heart muscles and leg muscles so we are running without stumbling or a heart attack. It about becoming fit for God's use and service. We learn to keep ourself subject to the one we serve which is Christ Jesus. We want ourselves to be subjection to God's Spirit and not in controlled by our emotions.

I got to pray with a lady last night while wanting in the waiting area. I didnt know her and she did not kmow me but I knew she needed prayer. I told her I wanted to pray for you and if their was some other Christians that wanted to pray to they were welcome to join us. I am not a go up and pray for someone I dont know, but it has happened twice lately. Within thirty minutes the nurse took her for more test. Hopefully they found the problem. She prayed too. Two or are gather in Christ name, he there and hears. God blesses. We make decisions everyday to pray and seek God on the battle field of faith. Move by emotion perhaps some, but moved with compassion because of past chronic pain. The moment I heard the scan she was having with it being over crowded as it was they had found something they need to check out and they were not wasting time if there wasnt a problem.

When you run you race make sure you not only running toward Jesus but are running and in subjection to Christ. One thing that makes a good football game is the coaches that trains the kids to be in subjection to the ruled and health of the game. To keep theirselves healthy to run the race. Are you getting enough food spiritually in church that if you are absent for a time or season your still being feed and spiritually walking by faith. Whether on or off the field you are still in the battle field of faith. Striving to help others to stand even when they feel they can not carry their cross a little more.

May the young people playing there game see the spiritual aspects of being will trained on and off the field of a healthy competition. That Christ may be part of their life to on and off the field. May they learn and know the value of good training coaches.

Dear Heavenly Father, prepare us as believers to be in subjection to you and listening to your Spirit, in Jesus precious name, Amen.

Continual Scripture Study: Romans 8:5 KJV
5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.