The key lesson from our text is that trophies are not won by chance. Drawing on the life of a professional athlete, Apostle Paul highlighted factors that contribute to success in life’s pursuits. The first thing we see from our text is moderation. In other words, discipline must be the watchword for those hunting for glory. The body can either be an asset or a liability. When, through discipline, it is made to do only what is profitable, it is a great asset. On the other hand, if it is ravaged by sicknesses and diseases, it becomes a great liability that can scuttle the loftiest of dreams. The next factor is focus. Being moderate is to conserve energy, but until it is channeled in a particular space, nothing positive will result. A broken focus is as troubling as a wrong one or none at all. Those who desire to make a strong mark cannot afford to shift focus now and then.

The hope of having a reward from God should inspire us to follow Him with purpose, focus, and discipline. Every such sacrifice will be worth its weight in gold by and by. 

Paul later went ahead to put a spiritual spin on these truths. Athletes give up so much for trophies that could be stolen or destroyed. They give up some food and other physical conveniences. They delay gratification of certain human desires, including raising a family. They do all these to wear medals that are prone to destruction. In the light of this, nothing should be too big a price to pay for those of us who are hoping to receive eternal crowns from God. The hope of having a reward from God should inspire us to follow Him with purpose, focus, and discipline. Every such sacrifice will be worth its weight in gold by and by.