In one of our recent meditations, we reflected on the qualifications Paul highlighted for those striving to receive an eternal crown. They include focus, modesty, and discipline. From our text today, it is obvious that one can have all these in place and still not make it to the podium. Failure to keep the rules of the competition will disqualify you from taking your place at the podium. There was a time in Olympic history when the entire Nigerian track and field contingent were disqualified for failing to comply with the established rules. Many of them did not fulfill the mandatory pre-game tests, and one was guilty of substance abuse. 

Those who become rulers or winners in life not only learn the rules but also apply them…The more laws you learn and apply, the better you fare in life.

If we view sports as a metaphor for life, then it is clear that life, too, has rules – and following them is essential to making the most of life. Those who become rulers or winners in life not only learn the rules but also apply them. The rules of life are too numerous to squeeze into this space; but we can mention a few of them. For example, there is the law of cause and effect. This rule says that it is in your power to choose a cause of action, but not in your power to determine the outcome. A farmer cannot plant corn and expect mangoes. It comes to this: if you don’t like what you are reaping, change what you are sowing. There is also the law of compensation. There is an inbuilt mechanism in the universe which compensates every energy expended. The more laws you learn and apply, the better you fare in life.