Finish the Race to Win the Trophy!
Paul told Timothy, "I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness." (2 Timothy 4:7)
Even though life is not a game, Paul used sports to picture life lessons. The "good fight" is not like shadow boxing (1 Cor. 9:24-27); we are in a real battle with Satan for saving lost souls, and training the minds of believers to think Biblically. "The race" is that God-designed marathon for us to run. Let us run His pace on His narrow way until we get "home."
Let us keep guard, and declare "the faith: delivered "once for all to the saints." It has never changed. Eternal life is a free gift to each person who repents of sin, trusting in Christ alone by His grace alone.
The Eagles and Patriots will finish the race for this NFL season this week. They have fought a good fight. Let's use this sporting event to teach life-lessons and eternal truths. Let us not allow a football game to replace our devotion to Christ's church. Let us not idolize great players over our worship of God and our amazing Savior Jesus Christ! Let's win our lasting crowns.