This is “Namma for Christ” with the one hundred seventieth inspirational message dated Saturday, September 26th, 2020. The title of this message is, “I Know – What It Takes To Win – 1st Corinthians 9:26a”. “I Know” by the Christian group “Big Daddy Weave” is a song that I first heard on my Christian radio station Star 99.1FM. I love how “Big Daddy Weave” sing this song with so much tenderness and passion.
The below scripture is what the Apostle Paul wrote in the 26th verse of the 9th chapter of 1st Corinthians:
1st Corinthians 9:26a
New Living Translation (NLT)
26 I run with purpose in every step…
The Apostle Paul wrote this verse (and three verses that surround it) to compare “running the Christian race” with the actual “athletic competition" of running a race.
The scripture text of “this” message was taken from the “same” scripture text that I read on (September 15th, 2020) in my daily devotional book entitled: “The Word For You Today – Strength and Guidance for Daily Living”.
The inspirational message I read on September 15th, 2020, was titled – WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN. I knew that it was a message that I wanted to share in my next “Namma for Christ” – I hope you find (some of the excerpts) as inspirational as I did:
WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN
26 I run with purpose in every step…
1st Corinthians 9:26a
New Living Translation (NLT)
Whether it’s in the world of sports or in the kingdom of God, all winners exhibit these five traits:
1. Self-awareness.
Winners are honest about their strengths and weaknesses. The Bible says, (see below):
In 1st Chronicles 28:9 NIV – “…The Lord searches every heart…if you seek Him, He will be found by you;
In prayer - you see yourself as you are. As you read God’s Word, you begin to see yourself as you can be.
2. Focus.
Wherever you are today, be “there” – because that’s where God is. People who spend their lives “waiting for their ship to come in” are usually disappointed. “Winners” live in the present moment. They refuse to be in one place while their mind is in another.
3. Confidence.
Winners overcome anxiety by keeping their eyes on the goal. As they get closer, their confidence increases. Jude writes – (see below)
Jude v. 20 NIV -
20 "Dear friends, by building yourselves up"...
This is something you must do for yourself, and do daily through prayer and God’s word. The below verses from Philippians also encourages everyone to “not be anxious”:
Philippians 4:6-7
New International Version (NIV)
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God;
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
4. Toughness.
Winners sacrifice the present for the future. They’ve learned to say no to indulgence and yes to discipline, because to them the prize is worth the price. Paul writes (see below)
1st Corinthians 9:27 NLT -
27 I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.
5. A game plan
Winners recognize that talent alone isn’t enough; you need a plan to live by. So, have you discovered God’s plan for your life? Are you living by it? If not, talk to Him about it today. It’s one of the most important conversations you will ever have.
Also, remember what the Lord tells you in Jeremiah 29:11 (see below)
Jeremiah 29:11
New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Please enjoy the above song, “I Know” by Big Daddy Weave - performed with power and anointing.
(I do not own the rights to this song).
(If you can't see the above video: Please scroll down to the end - Under the rectangular box labeled "Home" - please click "View web version". You will automatically be taken to the top of the message - Please press play to enjoy the song/video.)
