I Corinthians 9:24-27

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 and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

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I should run in such a way that I might win. I need to run with a goal in mind. I must train to achieve this goal. The word "beat" used here is a compound verb in the present tense, active voice, and indicative mood. The preposition hypo (meaning: under), and a derivative of optanomai (meaning: to look at.)

Literally - to hit under the eye. As a pugilist would do in a competition. The word picture here is Paul battling against himself. A Christ filled Paul buffeting another Paul who is filled with earthly passions; battling American Gladiator style.

Figuratively - to subdue one's fleshly desires.

I must be disciplined so that Jesus Christ will be glorified and I will not be disqualified.

1 Cor. 8:1 ..."knowledge makes arrogant"...

So, now that I know what to do; I need to do it! Pray for me!

TR