SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 25
1
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
(24) Don’t you realize that in a race
everyone runs, but only one person
gets the prize? So run to win!
(25) All athletes are disciplined in their
training.They do it to win a prize that
will fade away, but we do it for an
eternal prize.
(26) So I run with purpose in every step. I
am not just shadowboxing.
3
(27) I discipline my body like an athlete,
training it to do what it should.
Otherwise, I fear that after preaching
to others I myself might be disqualified.
-----------------------------------------
Obstacles are those frightful things you
see when you take your eyes off your goal.
-Hannah More
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
4
 As we have spent the last several weeks
concentrating on how churches and leaders
can get IT and keep IT; one of the areas that
has caught my attention is center on
FOCUS. Many of us understand what it
means to be focused on a goal. Many of us
also understand that we have lost our focus,
and thus find ourselves looking for that goal
that we long ago sort, but never achieved
simply because we allowed other things to
block our focus.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
5
 In 1Corinthians, Paul finds himself dealing
with the problems of people who had so
much promise, potential, and prospect for
success but somehow failed to attain the
goals that they had set for themselves. We
witness this calamity on an almost daily
basis in the life of people who started out in
life with all of the intellectual competencies,
physical capabilities and personalities that
clearly
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
6
suggested that they would ultimately
achieve every goal. However,
somewhere along the way they lost their
focus. They could no longer see the goal
clearly. They even stopped looking for it
because their lives had changed in such
ways that they didn’t care about the
goals that would have given them
measures of success.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
7
 Some were captured by the appeal of drugs,
alcohol, and other deleterious and
debilitating habits that destroyed their
outlook for positive outcomes. So, they
settled for less - never achieving the goals
that they anticipated in the days of their
youth, or the early years of life when they
got degrees which would prove and show to
the world their greatness.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
8
They are now loitering and feeling sorry for
themselves because others with less talent
and abilities who did not have the same
opportunities they had are surpassing them.
During the last few weeks as I watched
some of the playoff games that will
ultimately lead to one team fulfilling its goal
and earning a championship, I realized that
the difference between a losing team and a
winning team has much to do with their
determination to achieve their goal.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
9
 When you have goals and you focus on
those goals, Paul’s letter helps you to
understand that we cannot allow ourselves
to be stopped by whatever hindrances,
struggles, or impediments might get in our
way. I watched as two teams battle in the
very last seconds of the game, to put more
points on the board by crossing the goal
line, and scoring the necessary points for
victory.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
10
 They battled back and forth in those last
seconds with each team scoring a
touchdown. In the end, San Francisco
put the last points on the board because
New Orleans lost its focus and left a
player open who managed to get across
the goal line.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
11
 Paul in 1Corinthians tries to help the people
who are a part of an emerging church in
Corinth to understand that they would have
struggles and will face many problems; but,
if they stay focused on the goal they would
not only be able to overcome their
struggles, but also be able to share in the
joy of the victories that they could celebrate
by virtue of the souls that were saved.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
12
 I believe that victory is always possible
when we know what the goal is and
how best to get there. Paul gives us
three necessary requirements for
reaching our goals:
 Discerning the purpose
We must know why we are running for
the goal. In the text, he says that we
run because we have a purpose.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
13
The purpose is to win the prize, but we
are not always certain that just because
we enter the race we will automatically
win the prize.
 Paul puts it this way:
“(24) Don’t you realize that in a race
everyone runs, but only one person gets
the prize? So run to win!”
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
14
 Winning the race requires purpose, focus,
and discipline. Paul uses this illustration to
help us as Christians to understand that the
Christian life requires self-denial and
grueling preparation. Too many of us never
reach the goal because we refuse to give up
the things that are hindering our ability to
be focused on the ultimate prize. It takes as
much effort to lose as it does to win.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
15
 As Christians we sometimes find our focus
through our relationship with Jesus Christ.
We wanted a better life, and we changed
our focus from living a life of sin to one of
living for the saving power and grace of
God. But, somewhere along the way, the
devil stepped in and clouded our focus,
causing us to no longer be able to see the
goal. So, we backslid and lost our
opportunity to win the prize.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
16
 We must be as equipped and vigorous as
an athlete, when he or she makes a
decision to pursue a goal and win a prize.
In our faith community that prize is the
meaningful salvation that transforms
our lives. It moves us from allowing the
dark clouds to block us from the success
that God has made available to us.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
17
 What is your goal? Are you ready to
move from your state of brokenness,
fear, constantly losing, and watching
other people always bypass you and get
the very prize that you sought?
2. The Plan
 To live a life that is focused on the goal
and the pursuit of excellence. You must
have a plan.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
18
Just as you plan for a wedding, a party, or
any other event, you must also have a
focused plan for your life. Goals do not
come to you, you have to chase after them.
In your chase, you must not be merely
running as if there is nothing to accomplish,
you must run with the belief that you have
within you the ability to bring about a
conclusion and that is success.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
19
 It is interesting how we plan for things in our
lives. We will do everything possible to
make sure that we accomplish the goal that
we set out to do. No matter how much it
cost, the amount of money it takes, or how
many hours it requires; if our minds are
made up to do it, we just do it.
 Paul says it this way: “(25) All athletes are
disciplined in their training.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
20
They do it to win a prize that will fade
away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
(26) So I run with purpose in every step. I am
not just shadowboxing.”
 Sometimes we have to give up something
good in order to do what God wants us to
do. If we know that this is our God-given
goal, then our focus must be on the
ultimate prize that only Jesus can give us.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
21
 In order to get it we must have a sharp
and clear vision for what God wants for
us as we prepare for our victories. We
must have a narrowly defined focus
where the images we see of the ultimate
goal becomes so much a part of our
mindset and our belief system that we
believe nothing can stop us from having
one victory after another.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
22
 If we stay focused we will come to the
realization that God has so much that is
beneficial to us that if we continue to allow
ourselves to walk in favor with Him we will
ultimately cross the goal line and win the
prize.
3. Winning the Prize
 When we have remained focused,
understood our purpose, and kept our
visions on the prize we are ready to show
the world that we have IT.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
23
 And because we have IT we don’t give up in
the face of our struggles, we persevere in
spite of our challenges; and, we do not allow
ourselves to quit when Satan attacks.
 We have the promise and we have the prize.
With the will of God we dare to proclaim
that we are the IT because we have IT. The
greatness of God has emboldened in us to
the degree that we are not fearful of Satan
or anybody else.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
24
 Our mind is on the victories that we have
won because we stay focused on the goal.
We don’t know who will win the Super Bowl,
but one thing we do know is that through
Christ who has given us the victory, we have
already crossed the goal line and we are
winners. We have the prize because there is
no prize that is greater than the joy of the
Lord that is embodied in us.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
25
 The prize may not be visible to others,
but we know through the power of God
we have fulfilled the promise. We have
declared to the world that:
A charge to keep I have,
A God to Glorify,
A never dying soul to save,
And fit it for the sky.
“Focus on the Prize”
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)

More Related Content

What's hot (20)

Jesus' fulfillment of scripture
Jesus' fulfillment of scriptureJesus' fulfillment of scripture
Jesus' fulfillment of scripture
 
World view studies
World view studiesWorld view studies
World view studies
 
Judgment Vs. Conviction
Judgment Vs. ConvictionJudgment Vs. Conviction
Judgment Vs. Conviction
 
Hebrews chapter 2
Hebrews chapter 2Hebrews chapter 2
Hebrews chapter 2
 
Theology of Calling and Vocation
Theology of Calling and Vocation Theology of Calling and Vocation
Theology of Calling and Vocation
 
4 things i know from acts 1 100418
4 things i know from acts 1   1004184 things i know from acts 1   100418
4 things i know from acts 1 100418
 
Old Testament (OT) Journey 17,18 v. 2
Old Testament (OT) Journey 17,18 v. 2Old Testament (OT) Journey 17,18 v. 2
Old Testament (OT) Journey 17,18 v. 2
 
What is Spiritual Warfare?
What is Spiritual Warfare?What is Spiritual Warfare?
What is Spiritual Warfare?
 
34 forgiving others
34 forgiving others34 forgiving others
34 forgiving others
 
Spiritual Checkup
Spiritual CheckupSpiritual Checkup
Spiritual Checkup
 
Fixed Income
Fixed IncomeFixed Income
Fixed Income
 
Keys to Revival
Keys to RevivalKeys to Revival
Keys to Revival
 
Why Worship?
Why Worship?Why Worship?
Why Worship?
 
Book of mormon rel 412 2013
Book of mormon rel 412 2013Book of mormon rel 412 2013
Book of mormon rel 412 2013
 
12k04 1 pet5_1-11__ppt97_2003
12k04 1 pet5_1-11__ppt97_200312k04 1 pet5_1-11__ppt97_2003
12k04 1 pet5_1-11__ppt97_2003
 
_MINISTRY_Follow #1_Fasting & Prayer
_MINISTRY_Follow #1_Fasting & Prayer_MINISTRY_Follow #1_Fasting & Prayer
_MINISTRY_Follow #1_Fasting & Prayer
 
Motivation
MotivationMotivation
Motivation
 
I am...
I am...I am...
I am...
 
Sermon 10.02.11
Sermon 10.02.11Sermon 10.02.11
Sermon 10.02.11
 
Ken Fong - Seizing The Gift Of Courage - 090415
Ken Fong - Seizing The Gift Of Courage - 090415Ken Fong - Seizing The Gift Of Courage - 090415
Ken Fong - Seizing The Gift Of Courage - 090415
 

Similar to 012512 focus on the prize

Discover Discipline
Discover DisciplineDiscover Discipline
Discover DisciplineTim Jacobs
 
061022 No Pain – No Gain – No Glory Hebrews 12 1 3 Dale Wells
061022   No Pain – No Gain – No Glory   Hebrews 12 1 3   Dale Wells061022   No Pain – No Gain – No Glory   Hebrews 12 1 3   Dale Wells
061022 No Pain – No Gain – No Glory Hebrews 12 1 3 Dale WellsPalm Desert Church of Christ
 
How To Be Successful
How To Be SuccessfulHow To Be Successful
How To Be Successfulgep
 
03 physical and spiritual fitness
03 physical and spiritual fitness03 physical and spiritual fitness
03 physical and spiritual fitnesschucho1943
 
Live Up To Your Call
Live Up To Your CallLive Up To Your Call
Live Up To Your Callssusere10fc91
 
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"Don McClain
 
08-21-11 Bible Study Notes
08-21-11 Bible Study Notes08-21-11 Bible Study Notes
08-21-11 Bible Study Notestccdeaf
 
Youth Devotional - Running for the Gold
Youth Devotional - Running for the GoldYouth Devotional - Running for the Gold
Youth Devotional - Running for the GoldKen Sapp
 
Run in the race track
Run in the race trackRun in the race track
Run in the race trackStanley Tan
 
O&n run christian run part 2
O&n run christian run part 2O&n run christian run part 2
O&n run christian run part 2bricketts1615
 
Finishing strong 5 mental toughness
Finishing strong   5 mental toughnessFinishing strong   5 mental toughness
Finishing strong 5 mental toughnessBrian Salisbury
 
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the Gold
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the GoldBible Lessons For Youth - Running for the Gold
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the GoldKen Sapp
 
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025ebcla
 
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the Goal
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the GoalYouth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the Goal
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the GoalKen Sapp
 
Steps involved in winning the christian race
Steps involved in winning the christian raceSteps involved in winning the christian race
Steps involved in winning the christian raceObasanjo Holdings Limited
 
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.Butchic
 

Similar to 012512 focus on the prize (20)

Discover Discipline
Discover DisciplineDiscover Discipline
Discover Discipline
 
061022 No Pain – No Gain – No Glory Hebrews 12 1 3 Dale Wells
061022   No Pain – No Gain – No Glory   Hebrews 12 1 3   Dale Wells061022   No Pain – No Gain – No Glory   Hebrews 12 1 3   Dale Wells
061022 No Pain – No Gain – No Glory Hebrews 12 1 3 Dale Wells
 
How To Be Successful
How To Be SuccessfulHow To Be Successful
How To Be Successful
 
03 physical and spiritual fitness
03 physical and spiritual fitness03 physical and spiritual fitness
03 physical and spiritual fitness
 
Live Up To Your Call
Live Up To Your CallLive Up To Your Call
Live Up To Your Call
 
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"
“Divine Providence In The Life of Todays Christian"
 
08-21-11 Bible Study Notes
08-21-11 Bible Study Notes08-21-11 Bible Study Notes
08-21-11 Bible Study Notes
 
Youth Devotional - Running for the Gold
Youth Devotional - Running for the GoldYouth Devotional - Running for the Gold
Youth Devotional - Running for the Gold
 
Run in the race track
Run in the race trackRun in the race track
Run in the race track
 
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
 
O&n run christian run part 2
O&n run christian run part 2O&n run christian run part 2
O&n run christian run part 2
 
Finishing strong 5 mental toughness
Finishing strong   5 mental toughnessFinishing strong   5 mental toughness
Finishing strong 5 mental toughness
 
Dealing with Stress.pptx
Dealing with Stress.pptxDealing with Stress.pptx
Dealing with Stress.pptx
 
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
05-20-18, 2 Corinthians 5;9-10, Rewards in Heaven
 
A Life of Faith Pleases God.pptx
A Life of Faith Pleases God.pptxA Life of Faith Pleases God.pptx
A Life of Faith Pleases God.pptx
 
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the Gold
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the GoldBible Lessons For Youth - Running for the Gold
Bible Lessons For Youth - Running for the Gold
 
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025
John Lin - Run for the Prize - 081025
 
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the Goal
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the GoalYouth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the Goal
Youth Devotional - Florence Chadwick: Focused on the Goal
 
Steps involved in winning the christian race
Steps involved in winning the christian raceSteps involved in winning the christian race
Steps involved in winning the christian race
 
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.
16. 1 corinthians 9.24 27(april 27, 2014)running for the eternal.
 

More from sserna9

Tithers affirmation
Tithers affirmationTithers affirmation
Tithers affirmationsserna9
 
A promise you can count on
A promise you can count on A promise you can count on
A promise you can count on sserna9
 
By faith
By faith By faith
By faith sserna9
 
The Coming Resurrection
The Coming Resurrection The Coming Resurrection
The Coming Resurrection sserna9
 
Spreading the gospel 022912
Spreading the gospel 022912Spreading the gospel 022912
Spreading the gospel 022912sserna9
 
The Power to Overcome
The Power to OvercomeThe Power to Overcome
The Power to Overcomesserna9
 

More from sserna9 (6)

Tithers affirmation
Tithers affirmationTithers affirmation
Tithers affirmation
 
A promise you can count on
A promise you can count on A promise you can count on
A promise you can count on
 
By faith
By faith By faith
By faith
 
The Coming Resurrection
The Coming Resurrection The Coming Resurrection
The Coming Resurrection
 
Spreading the gospel 022912
Spreading the gospel 022912Spreading the gospel 022912
Spreading the gospel 022912
 
The Power to Overcome
The Power to OvercomeThe Power to Overcome
The Power to Overcome
 

Recently uploaded

Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...
Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...
Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...baharayali
 
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptx
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptxA SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptx
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptxShivalik
 
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...baharayali
 
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE  and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE  and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...makhmalhalaaay
 
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...jfrenchau
 
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...baharayali
 
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...baharayali
 
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALA
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALAGongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALA
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALANancy Shaw
 
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...makhmalhalaaay
 
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptx
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptxTwelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptx
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptxOH TEIK BIN
 
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...baharayali
 
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /Amil Baba Naveed Bangali
 
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak 2024 (Eng. & Chi.).pptx
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak  2024  (Eng. & Chi.).pptxReflections and Aspirations for Wesak  2024  (Eng. & Chi.).pptx
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak 2024 (Eng. & Chi.).pptxOH TEIK BIN
 
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...baharayali
 
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Society
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on SocietyBad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Society
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Societyruso70mm
 
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样SDSA
 
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...Amil Baba Naveed Bangali
 
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...makhmalhalaaay
 

Recently uploaded (20)

Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...
Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...
Worldwide kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu expert i...
 
English - The Book of Exodus the Second Book of Moses.pdf
English - The Book of Exodus the Second Book of Moses.pdfEnglish - The Book of Exodus the Second Book of Moses.pdf
English - The Book of Exodus the Second Book of Moses.pdf
 
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptx
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptxA SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptx
A SHORT PPT ON SHRI GURU ARJAN DEV JI.pptx
 
Persian Soul Winning Gospel Presentation - Only JESUS CHRIST Saves.pptx
Persian Soul Winning Gospel Presentation - Only JESUS CHRIST Saves.pptxPersian Soul Winning Gospel Presentation - Only JESUS CHRIST Saves.pptx
Persian Soul Winning Gospel Presentation - Only JESUS CHRIST Saves.pptx
 
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...
Original kala ilam, Kala jadu specialist in Dubai and Black magic expert in D...
 
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE  and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE  and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...
Genuine kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in UAE and Kala ilam specialist in Saudi...
 
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...
The Illuminated Republic: Understanding Adam Weishaupt through his own writin...
 
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...
Authentic black magic, Amil baba specialist Oman Or Bangali Amil baba expert ...
 
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...
Professional kala ilam, Black magic specialist in Pakistan Or Kala jadu exper...
 
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALA
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALAGongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALA
Gongregation Tehillah Journal of 2024 GALA
 
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...
Top kala ilam, Kala ilam expert in Multan and Black magic specialist in Sindh...
 
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptx
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptxTwelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptx
Twelve Terrific Teachings (English & Chinese).pptx
 
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic expert in Maldives Or Kala ilam specialist in Y...
 
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /
Amil Baba in Pakistan | Amil Baba in UK | Amil Baba USA | Amil Baba in Canada /
 
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak 2024 (Eng. & Chi.).pptx
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak  2024  (Eng. & Chi.).pptxReflections and Aspirations for Wesak  2024  (Eng. & Chi.).pptx
Reflections and Aspirations for Wesak 2024 (Eng. & Chi.).pptx
 
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...
Famous Kala ilam, Black magic specialist in India Or kala jadu taweez for lov...
 
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Society
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on SocietyBad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Society
Bad Religious Practice and It's Adverse Effect on Society
 
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样
原版定制英国布莱顿大学毕业证原件一模一样
 
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...
Amil Baba Bangali in UK/Online services in UK Australia Canada and Pakistan. ...
 
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...
Powerful black magic, Bangali Amil baba in Rawalpindi and Kala jadu specialis...
 

012512 focus on the prize

  • 1. 1 “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 2. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT) (24) Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! (25) All athletes are disciplined in their training.They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. (26) So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.
  • 3. 3 (27) I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. ----------------------------------------- Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. -Hannah More “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 4. 4  As we have spent the last several weeks concentrating on how churches and leaders can get IT and keep IT; one of the areas that has caught my attention is center on FOCUS. Many of us understand what it means to be focused on a goal. Many of us also understand that we have lost our focus, and thus find ourselves looking for that goal that we long ago sort, but never achieved simply because we allowed other things to block our focus. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 5. 5  In 1Corinthians, Paul finds himself dealing with the problems of people who had so much promise, potential, and prospect for success but somehow failed to attain the goals that they had set for themselves. We witness this calamity on an almost daily basis in the life of people who started out in life with all of the intellectual competencies, physical capabilities and personalities that clearly “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 6. 6 suggested that they would ultimately achieve every goal. However, somewhere along the way they lost their focus. They could no longer see the goal clearly. They even stopped looking for it because their lives had changed in such ways that they didn’t care about the goals that would have given them measures of success. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 7. 7  Some were captured by the appeal of drugs, alcohol, and other deleterious and debilitating habits that destroyed their outlook for positive outcomes. So, they settled for less - never achieving the goals that they anticipated in the days of their youth, or the early years of life when they got degrees which would prove and show to the world their greatness. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 8. 8 They are now loitering and feeling sorry for themselves because others with less talent and abilities who did not have the same opportunities they had are surpassing them. During the last few weeks as I watched some of the playoff games that will ultimately lead to one team fulfilling its goal and earning a championship, I realized that the difference between a losing team and a winning team has much to do with their determination to achieve their goal. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 9. 9  When you have goals and you focus on those goals, Paul’s letter helps you to understand that we cannot allow ourselves to be stopped by whatever hindrances, struggles, or impediments might get in our way. I watched as two teams battle in the very last seconds of the game, to put more points on the board by crossing the goal line, and scoring the necessary points for victory. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 10. 10  They battled back and forth in those last seconds with each team scoring a touchdown. In the end, San Francisco put the last points on the board because New Orleans lost its focus and left a player open who managed to get across the goal line. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 11. 11  Paul in 1Corinthians tries to help the people who are a part of an emerging church in Corinth to understand that they would have struggles and will face many problems; but, if they stay focused on the goal they would not only be able to overcome their struggles, but also be able to share in the joy of the victories that they could celebrate by virtue of the souls that were saved. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 12. 12  I believe that victory is always possible when we know what the goal is and how best to get there. Paul gives us three necessary requirements for reaching our goals:  Discerning the purpose We must know why we are running for the goal. In the text, he says that we run because we have a purpose. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 13. 13 The purpose is to win the prize, but we are not always certain that just because we enter the race we will automatically win the prize.  Paul puts it this way: “(24) Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!” “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 14. 14  Winning the race requires purpose, focus, and discipline. Paul uses this illustration to help us as Christians to understand that the Christian life requires self-denial and grueling preparation. Too many of us never reach the goal because we refuse to give up the things that are hindering our ability to be focused on the ultimate prize. It takes as much effort to lose as it does to win. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 15. 15  As Christians we sometimes find our focus through our relationship with Jesus Christ. We wanted a better life, and we changed our focus from living a life of sin to one of living for the saving power and grace of God. But, somewhere along the way, the devil stepped in and clouded our focus, causing us to no longer be able to see the goal. So, we backslid and lost our opportunity to win the prize. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 16. 16  We must be as equipped and vigorous as an athlete, when he or she makes a decision to pursue a goal and win a prize. In our faith community that prize is the meaningful salvation that transforms our lives. It moves us from allowing the dark clouds to block us from the success that God has made available to us. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 17. 17  What is your goal? Are you ready to move from your state of brokenness, fear, constantly losing, and watching other people always bypass you and get the very prize that you sought? 2. The Plan  To live a life that is focused on the goal and the pursuit of excellence. You must have a plan. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 18. 18 Just as you plan for a wedding, a party, or any other event, you must also have a focused plan for your life. Goals do not come to you, you have to chase after them. In your chase, you must not be merely running as if there is nothing to accomplish, you must run with the belief that you have within you the ability to bring about a conclusion and that is success. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 19. 19  It is interesting how we plan for things in our lives. We will do everything possible to make sure that we accomplish the goal that we set out to do. No matter how much it cost, the amount of money it takes, or how many hours it requires; if our minds are made up to do it, we just do it.  Paul says it this way: “(25) All athletes are disciplined in their training. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 20. 20 They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. (26) So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.”  Sometimes we have to give up something good in order to do what God wants us to do. If we know that this is our God-given goal, then our focus must be on the ultimate prize that only Jesus can give us. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 21. 21  In order to get it we must have a sharp and clear vision for what God wants for us as we prepare for our victories. We must have a narrowly defined focus where the images we see of the ultimate goal becomes so much a part of our mindset and our belief system that we believe nothing can stop us from having one victory after another. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 22. 22  If we stay focused we will come to the realization that God has so much that is beneficial to us that if we continue to allow ourselves to walk in favor with Him we will ultimately cross the goal line and win the prize. 3. Winning the Prize  When we have remained focused, understood our purpose, and kept our visions on the prize we are ready to show the world that we have IT. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 23. 23  And because we have IT we don’t give up in the face of our struggles, we persevere in spite of our challenges; and, we do not allow ourselves to quit when Satan attacks.  We have the promise and we have the prize. With the will of God we dare to proclaim that we are the IT because we have IT. The greatness of God has emboldened in us to the degree that we are not fearful of Satan or anybody else. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 24. 24  Our mind is on the victories that we have won because we stay focused on the goal. We don’t know who will win the Super Bowl, but one thing we do know is that through Christ who has given us the victory, we have already crossed the goal line and we are winners. We have the prize because there is no prize that is greater than the joy of the Lord that is embodied in us. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)
  • 25. 25  The prize may not be visible to others, but we know through the power of God we have fulfilled the promise. We have declared to the world that: A charge to keep I have, A God to Glorify, A never dying soul to save, And fit it for the sky. “Focus on the Prize” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NLT)

Editor's Notes

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 4
  4. 14
  5. 22