Do you not know that in a race, all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. (1 Cor 9:24-26 NIV)

Prayer: LORD, You use challenging and painful things that happen in my life as part of my training. Strict training, though unpleasant, is necessary to achieve a good result. Help me look beyond discomfort, disappointment, and inconvenience to see my purpose in You. Help me learn in every situation I encounter. Lead me where I need to go and teach me what I need to know. Do whatever You need to do to make it so. In Jesus’ name, Amen.