2 Timothy 2:5, “Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules.”

Interesting points:
1. In this verse Paul transitions from his word picture of a soldier to that of an athlete, building on the idea discipline and single-mindedness of purpose allow us Christians to overcome hardships in our Christian walk.

2. There are no shortcuts to victory on the field of competition. In Paul’s day, as now, concerted training, playing by the rules and overcoming hardships along the way – the right way – ensure one is not disqualified in a match, race or competition. In 1 Corinthians 9:27 Paul writes, “No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” Self-discipline and self-control govern the life of an athlete so that he will be eligible to secure the victor’s crown.

3. Likewise, we Christians must follow God's truth in daily life to be rewarded in heaven. This is not a matter of salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9), but of securing heavenly rewards.

Application.
Brothers, yesterday we talked about distractions and choosing to do what pleases our Lord. Although our salvation is already secured by Christ’s righteousness, we ought to be carefully to avoid slacking off in our faith or even meandering aimlessly on the brink of slipping into sin.
The athlete reminds us that we must have the discipline to pick up our cross daily just as the soldier reminds us to keep our focus on the things of God so that we can please Him.
Hopefully you have heard God speak to you about what He desires of you this year and posted it somewhere that will keep you focused, each and every day! Many an athlete competes individually but the team-sport athlete knows that encouragement and accountability is helpful when he has not yet developed self-discipline. Take some time today and communicate to someone you trust what the Lord has laid on your heart. Sometimes just knowing that your friend will pray with you and ask you at some later time how you are doing will serve as motivation to remain committed and stay on track.

May God provide the commitment and motivation to run the race of life so that we will not be disqualified for the prize!