• Cathy Rigby was a member of the United States Women's Gymnastic team in the Olympics at Munich in 1972. Most remember the tragedy brought by terrorists at the Olympics that year. No one remembers Cathy for her deep and only desire that year - to win a gold medal.
• She trained hard and did very well. But she did not win the gold medal. After her event she sought out her mother. Weeping uncontrollably she threw her arms around her and said, "I'm sorry, but I did my best."
• "We know that and God knows that," replied her mother. She then added, "Doing your best is much better than being the best."
• Winning an event in track and field, or any other athletic contest requires three things: purpose, determination and dedication. If the contestant lacks any of the three, victory is doomed.
• Paul uses winning a race to illustrate that the Christian life requires the same characteristics that are required of an athlete: self-denial and a grueling training program. As Christians we are running toward our reward which we will receive when we arrive in heaven. If we want to "win the race" and all that God has to offer us, we must sacrifice the things in life that keep us from Bible study, prayer, worship and service.
• Prayer: Heavenly Father, we all want to "win the prize" that You have for us. Give us the courage and willingness to discipline ourselves to be victorious. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
• Scripture for Today: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
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