An athlete who doesn’t play by the rules runs the risk of disqualification. We have seen athletes disqualified for starting a race too soon, running outside their lanes, betting on their events, and using illegal performance enhancing drugs. God has established a system that disqualifies some people from receiving eternal life. We must follow His rules for the game of life. Simply stated, we must forsake our sinful desires to serve ourselves and trust Him to forgive us and live for Him.
I Corinthians 9:26-27 says, “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.” Futility and aimlessness is walking in our strength only to do that which fulfills our own desires. Walking in fulfillment and purpose comes from abiding in the strength of God and doing what pleases Him.
Reluctant Retiree 