Think Jesus Sample

The Bigger Win

Philippians 4:6-9, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Psalm 16:11; 73:26

What feels good about winning? It feels good to receive recognition. We like to hear people praise our efforts. It feels good when people point to us as the best. It is satisfying to be the winner. How long does this feeling last?

Fix your thoughts on what is…worthy of praise. 

Philippians 4:8b

We want to win. That’s a good thing because it motivates us to become better at volleyball and compete hard. The Bible says, “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!” 1 Corinthians 9:24 The Bible says we should compete to win, but it goes on to say, “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.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 All athletes compete for a prize. What is the prize? Why does it fade away? The prize is recognition and praise for our efforts. It can make us happy for a while, but it doesn’t last. It fades away as soon as we lose again. God wants us to know that the real prize is the one he gives. What is God’s eternal prize? Himself. He is our prize. God says joy and happiness are found only with him. Psalm 16:11 He is everything we will ever need to feel completely satisfied. Psalm 73:26

What should you do when you win? When you win, be happy. Enjoy it. Celebrate with your teammates. Also, fix your thoughts on the real prize; the gift of eternal life through Jesus. Thank him for coming alongside you and offering you an even bigger win. Turn the recognition and praise you get back to Jesus. Point to him as the greatest; the one worthy of praise.

PRAY

Heavenly Father, the satisfaction we get from winning is nice, but it’s nothing compared to the satisfaction you give. Help us not lose sight of that. Help us stay focused on the bigger win; being saved by Jesus and the hope, peace, and new life he gives. Amen