My morning with the God-1 Corinthians 9:19 -27 MSG

“I’ve become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life… I didn’t just want to talk about it; I wanted to be in on it! You’ve all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally. I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got.

This morning, as I sit in quietness before the Lord, I am reminded of Paul’s words about running to win. Yesterday’s message at City Worship Center pierced my heart. Paul didn’t live casually – he was intentional, disciplined, and focused. He wasn’t running aimlessly or shadowboxing the air. He ran with purpose , so must we.

I think about my own race – as a nurse with 40 years of service, a coach, a mother, a grandmother, and a woman called by God to impact lives. I’ve worn many hats and shifted into many roles to reach different people, just like Paul said: becoming all things to all people so that I might win some for Christ.

In healthcare, I’ve learned to adjust my approach to each patient, family member, or staff member, meeting them where they are. In business, I have visited homeless shelters with my Bible and a deck of cards in order to get to know the people living there , so that they would feel comfortable in talking to me .I seek to guide others into their calling with clarity and strategy. But Paul reminds me today: don’t just run busy; run purposefully. Every conversation, every task, every prayer, every post I make – let it be done to bring someone closer to the knowledge of God and His love.

Prayer

🙏🏾 Father, thank You for reminding me that this is not a casual stroll – it’s a race with eternal rewards. Help me discipline my body, mind, and spirit to stay focused on You. Let me not waste time swinging at the air, but let each move I make today be strategic and impactful. May everything I do draw someone closer to You. I want to finish strong, Lord. Strengthen me to run with endurance and to cross the finish line hearing, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.”

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Declaration

✨ Today, I will run my race with intentionality.

✨ I will serve, coach, nurture, and lead with purpose.

✨ I will not get distracted by temporary rewards,

✨ For I’m after the crown that will last forever.

🏅👑

Journal Prompt

🖊️ Where in my life have I been running aimlessly?

🖊️ What is one intentional step I can take today to run my race with purpose?

💛 Written by Catherine Pickett

Nurse Navigator | Certified Coach | Kingdom Builder

For more devotionals, visit CatherinePickett.com