Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body & make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified  for the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Winning a race requires purpose & discipline. The Christian life takes hard work, self denial & grueling preparation. As Christians, we are running toward our Heavenly reward. The essential disciplines of prayer, Bible study & true worship equip us to run with vigor & stamina. Don't merely observe from the grandstand; don't just turn out to jog a few laps each morning.  Train diligently - your spiritual progress depends on it. Thank you Jesus. Good morning Holy Spirit.  Prayer: Father, help us to run this marathon race from earth to Heaven with Your energy. Help us to devote ourselves to prayer, Bible study & true worship. As for me, i am running this this race with a view to obtain the crown of life, crown of righteousness & crown of glory. Remove anything that may seek to distract me in this race in Jesus name. Put your angels to action. Let them minister to our needs. Give us wisdom to handle complex situations & to make sound decisions. In Jesus mighty name we pray & believe, Amen. God bless you all.