Climate change. Life rights. Racism. Conservation. Politics. Religion. Imagine knowing someone who fought ardently against something that you hold dear. Now, imagine them very suddenly coming over to your way of thinking. Would you instantly trust them and welcome them into your “inner circle?” Would you afford them the same rights and respect that you extend to others who share your beliefs? What would convince you that they had really changed?

 

That was Paul’s situation described in 1 Corinthians 9. Once an ardent persecutor of Christians, he was suddenly and dramatically fully persuaded to live and preach the gospel of Jesus, the very one he was persecuting. No wonder people were cautious of his transformation. But the evidence of faith is a radically changed life, one fully devoted to knowing Jesus and making him known to others. And for Paul, no other activity or pursuit compared to the passion he poured into this singular goal of impacting the lives of others for God.

 

He gave up his rights to be compensated for his preaching, his right to material prosperity. He gave up his rights to “be right” about philosophical issues because he knew they were distractions from the real issue of introducing people to Jesus. He was completely driven by his gift to preach – and live – the gospel wherever he went. His spiritual understanding seemed to grow exponentially as he devoted and disciplined himself to loving his life fully for God, what he calls “running the race.”

 

It gives me pause to ask myself some tough questions about my own life and the “race” I am running. Maybe you’d like to join me in a time of reflection:

In what ways does my live give evidence to a real living faith? If Christianity were a crime (as it is in some parts of the world) would there be enough evidence in my life to “convict” me?

To what degree am I willing to give up my rights to positively impact the lives of others, especially those Jesus calls “the least of these?” To live simply and humbly so that others might have opportunity to live? To be generous with my wealth, my time, and my gifts and talents?

How diligent am I at protecting my time so I can be still before God and let his Word impact my own life?

Am I as eager to look for opportunities for gospel conversations as I am to discuss weather, sports, politics, or other interests?

Am I interested in finding common ground where there is conflict so mutually valued relationships can be built and strengthened?

In what ways am I using the gifts God gave me to grow spiritually and encourage others in their spiritual growth?

How much of my focus is on honoring God in my relationships compared to the other competing interests in my life?

What do I need to get a better grip on living a life filled with purpose and meaning?
Paul encourages us to run the race of life by disciplining ourselves through focused daily effort and devotion to a singular life purpose. He urges us to not become “disqualified” by wasting our time, money, and energy on meaningless and aimless pursuits. We can aim higher today!

 

The real evidence of faith isn’t words or religious actions, It’s a changed life, one that is transformed by the power of God, sold out to a single and all important cause. Real faith seeks to grow spiritually, impact others, gives up personal rights in order to win others to Christ. Let your faith give evidence to a great God who loves us and wants to reach others with his love…while time still remains.