"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. "
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 KJV


Even when it doesn't feel good, a true runner pushes; Through the rain, pain, the miles and hills. They have the mindset, no matter what it takes or how hard it gets, im gunna make. As they continue to push, their body begins to come into subjection as their mindset overcomes any difficulties or hurt. It takes training, hard work, putting your body into submission. A runner never stops training or running otherwise they may fail. It takes doing things you don't like or want to win this race. Being consistent. Putting the race before all other things even when its unpopular. You can't expect to win a race you never train for! This race takes discipline: prayer, fasting, reading the Word( and applying), giving up or doing things you don't like, being there every time the door is open.
It takes hard work.
It takes patience.
It takes obedience.
It takes strength.
It takes discipline.
It takes endurance.
It takes BLOOD, SWEAT, AND TEARS!!
But most of all, it takes a winners mindset- the mindset of Christ!

"So fight I, not as one that beateth the air..."