With the 40th edition of the Kona Ironman just completed, Pastor Bruce looks at how Paul compares Christianity to athletics. The people of Corinth would have easily understood Paul’s remarks about racing and boxing. The Isthmian games were held just down the road from Corinth every four years. So Paul hung on this athletic imagery to encourage them and us to live a life which glorifies our Lord. The sermon text, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, makes it clear that the Lord is pleased with us when we make serving and following Him the priority of our lives. In fact, God will one day reward those who put aside the lures of this world and run the race of faith with excellence.