1Co 9:26, 27 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.
Paul must have enjoyed the sporting activities of his day and he often used them as examples for the Christian life. Running and boxing are athletic metaphors used to illustrate the need for rigid self control and discipline.
The body is not evil, but it is the battle ground of temptations. If believers will not control the flesh/body, then it will control them. Self control is not a one time victory but a long – term Marathon of self – discipline for the cause of Christ.
It is a painful experience to be disqualified because of indiscipline. If we run the race of the Christian life poorly, we might not get the prize. Even those who have done great ministry and have led many to heaven can be disqualified. We must keep our bodies and their sinful desires under control lest after we have done all that we have done, we be disqualified.
Further readings:
1Co 9:24
Gal 5:23
1Tim 6:12
🙏Blessed Day🙏