Focus on God’s Goodness-Imperishable Crown

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Focus on God’s Goodness is found in First Corinthians 9:24 and 25.

The Apostle Paul was showing what we can learn about the Christian life from the sports world.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

During the ancient games, a wreath was placed on the victor’s head as a reward for winning the contest. Paul was comparing that scene with the heavenly reward that awaits the believer for faithful endurance. An imperishable crown is in store for the believer who crosses the finish line victoriously. They have applied themselves with proper spiritual training and completed the race they were called to run. They fulfill God’s calling for their lives and receive a lasting crown.

The Imperishable Crown reveals the Goodness of God and is a reason to give thanks in the Year of Gratitude.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com