3.  The Christian life is often compared to running a race: 1 Cor. 9:24-27; 2 Tim. 4:7; Heb. 12:1  The New Testament speaks of victory and gaining the prize: 1 Cor. 15:57; 1 Jn. 5:4; Phil. 3:14  In these analogies of athletics and contests, God’s word sets forth the guidelines for spiritual success so we may win “the race that is set before us” (Heb. 12:1). 3 Win the Race!

4.  You can’t just show up and race in the Indy 500! 2 Tim. 2:5  Obedience to the gospel essential to qualify for the race: Jn. 8:24; Acts 17:30; Matt. 10:32-33; Mk. 16:16  By obedience we enter Christ qualifying for the race set before us: Gal. 3:27 4 Win the Race!

5. 5  Cannot successfully run the race burdened with sin!  We are new creatures in Christ! 2 Cor. 5:17  Must “walk in newness of life”: Rom. 6:4  Must “lay aside every weight and…”: Heb. 12:1  Must “lay aside all filthiness…and”: Jas. 1:21  Must heed Paul’s commands: 2 Tim. 2:4; Col. 3:5-10

6. 6 Win the Race!  Self-control not a popular concept in today’s society.  In sports self-control is called being “in training” and “staying in shape.”  Self-control requires dedication, commitment, endurance and self-discipline: 2 Tim. 2:3; 1 Cor. 9:27

7. 7 Win the Race!  The Christian race is not a sprint; it’s a marathon, an endurance race: Heb. 12:1  Many begin with vigor and zeal, but fade before reaching the finish line.  Perseverance is essential! Rom. 5:3-4; 2 Pet. 1:6

8. 8 Win the Race!  Recall what Paul said about himself? 1 Cor. 9:24  We must continue to press forward: Phil. 3:14  Be thankful for God’s strengthening! Eph. 1:15-23

9. 9 Win the Race!  Recall what Paul said about himself? 1 Cor. 9:26  Beware of detours and wasted motion, we must use our time wisely: Jas. 4:14  Imagine being guaranteed a billion dollars IF you followed good advice! Matt. 16:26

10. 10 Win the Race!  Recall what Paul said? 2 Tim. 2:5  Every sport has its own set of rules and referees to enforce those rules: 2 Jn. 9- 11; Phil. 3:18  We also cannot win the race if we cause others to stumble: Matt. 18:6-7

11. 11 Win the Race!  Recall what the Hebrew writer said? Heb. 12:1-2  No race was ever won by looking back and living in the past.  We can be easily diverted from our course if we don’t keep our eyes fastened firmly on the finish line: Phil. 3:12-14

12. 12 Win the Race!  Help is only a prayer away: Eph. 6:18  When praying we must:  Ask in faith: Jas. 1:5-8  Be persistent: Lk. 18:1-8  Pray with thanksgiving: Phil. 4:6  The result: Phil. 4:7

13. 13 Win the Race!  Who wins the Indianapolis 500?  Can’t win the Christian race if we quit half- way through; intentions do not equal completing the race.  Winning requires:  Effort: Phil. 2:12  Determination: 1 Cor. 15:58  Perseverance: 2 Tim. 3:10

14. 14 Win the Race!  If we follow God’s way for success we can be winners in the greatest race!  Let us live the life of a faithful Christian so we can win the race!  Are you in the race?!