Vessels of Comfort Lifeline for Today - Thursday, January 25, 2024

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:27)

Most of us have made commitments to ourselves this January 2024. There are so many things on the market to help you “discipline” your body. There are weight loss programs like Weight Watchers, Noom, and Jenny Craig. These programs  tout that they can make a difference in your life, helping you shed those unwanted pounds. Then, there are the personal trainers who make promises that if you follow their guidance, you can become the very best version of yourself. If neither of those things work for you, there are the more extreme measures like weight loss medication and surgery. 

Though our focus may be on weight loss, muscle building, or being/looking healthy, Paul’s focus is so much more. You see, as I have gotten older and seen death face to face, I realize that the work, effort, time, and attention means nothing when your body is lying in a casket. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:26 that he does not run like someone running aimlessly or fight like a boxer beating the air. He understands that he must discipline the body and make it a slave. What does that mean? The body is just the temple the Holy Spirit dwells in. It is through its discipline that we can do those things that are pleasing to God and use it to fulfill Christ’s mission for us on earth. 

So, my prayer is that we will approach this new year with a broader vision. It is not about getting to a certain size or looking a particular way in our clothes; it is about living a life of discipline so that we are “fit” to fulfill the mission of God in us. 

MEDITATION: I have spent too much time being consumed with the number on the scale or the number I purchase to put on this body of dust. Lord, teach me to discipline my body on purpose, so that the end goal is making it a slave so that I can run this race you have set before me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.