“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:27
January 4, 2023
The physical body of the Christian is to be disciplined and cared for for the glory of God. There is a “hustle ideology” on the loose today. Many are obsessed with being the best version of themselves they can be. Special diets, a rigorous work out plan, protein drinks, looking young and thin. More muscle for men. More beauty for women. These things are not sin in themselves, but they can take over one’s life. The apostle Paul was aware of a hustle culture in his day. But that was not what he was advocating. The Christian must be willing to give up his or her rights for the sake of the gospel. This means controlling one’s desires. It means combat with sin dwelling within. The body is not where sin is. Sin lurks within and wants control. The Spirit of God makes self-control possible (Gal. 5:23). The body and its appetites must be harnessed in order to be effective in the Christian life and reaching the unsaved for Christ. Like the athlete who disciplines himself and wins the race, so the follower of Christ must be willing to undergo discomfort, pain, and suffering for the cause of Christ. To be disqualified is to lose our rewards. Do we know how to say yes and no for the good of our body? Do we listen to truth and it not effect our personal life? Are our appetites under control? Do I overeat? Under eat? Do I get the exercise I need? Is my body at the disposal of the Lord?
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“O Lord of grace and mercy, teach me how to master all of my life for all of my life for the sake of Christ.”