No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:27
Sometimes my body feels out of control. Like a wild man running loose in the jungle, it seems impossible to tame it. How could I ever expect to be righteous - ever expect to win the prize - when self-control so often eludes me?
The Apostle Paul faced this same struggle, as every man does. Yet despite the challenge, he could say, "I beat my body and make it my slave." How does one make his body like a slave? How can one control himself in a world that is so out of control?
The truth is: it doesn't involve the body as much as it involves the mind. Either in exercise, eating, or sex, physical failure generally begins as a thought. A temptation that is allowed to grow in the mind easily becomes a premeditated sin. If there is ever hope of righteous living with our bodies, we must allow the Holy Spirit to intervene - in our minds.
Lord, for so long it seems my body has been out of control. How tough it is to walk in righteousness. But there is hope - not in some masochistic way of control, but through the gift of Your Spirit. Help me to keep my thoughts in check today. Give me the ability to practice self-control in every area of life. Make me a slave to Your holiness.