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“And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we can incorruptible” (1 Corinthians 9:25).
In this verse Paul is speaking about competing in the Olympic games, which were popular back then. Did you know that the first Olympic games were held almost 800 years before the birth of Christ? It was the same then as it is today. Those who wish to compete in the games exercise restraint in every aspect of their lives, in order to keep their bodies in very good shape. They are careful about their diet, careful about their exercise program, and careful not to injure themselves. Their goal is to win that event for which they are training.
But suppose they do win? Yes, they may get a medal, and it is nice to have. In the days of Paul, they were given a laurel wreath to wear on their head. However, it is corruptible crown; it will not last beyond this life. (A laurel wreath might last only a few days!) But you and I have the privilege of serving the Lord, and in that sense we can run a race for the Lord. His reward will be incorruptible; it will last for all eternity.
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