Day 227 Bible Reading: Nehemiah 9-10, 1 Corinthians 9:13-27, Psalm 34:1-10 and Proverb 21:13 
Paul uses many illustrations to explain the Christian life and one of them is that of running in a race. The athlete goes into strict training and lives a disciplined life all for winning a crown that is temporary. Paul encourages us to also live a disciplined life where we do not give into desires that corrupt us so that we too can win a crown but there is a difference with this crown...this crown will last forever. When we draw from the “wealth” and the riches of God, we can make wiser decisions and choose to live godly ways, and invest in the right things. To live a life of purpose and meaning, make sure you invest in the things of God. Luke 12:32, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. God wants to give you the kingdom, give you a crown. If we say Kingdom come, your will be done. Receiving inheritance is doing the will of the Father, it is receiving an assignment. It’s to fulfill God’s purpose in your life.
"Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified." - 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 (English Standard Version)
"Lord, let us take to heart this example that Paul gives us to be like an athlete in practicing so that we live our life reflecting a new identity in Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen."
