The phrase "striving lawfully" comes from 2 Timothy 2:5, where Paul says, "And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully" (KJV). In this passage, Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete competing according to the rules to illustrate how we, as believers, are called to pursue our goals in a way that honors God and adheres to His commands. Striving lawfully means that in our spiritual lives and in our pursuit of God’s purposes, we must follow the guidelines God has set for us. Here, we’ll explore what it means to “strive lawfully” and how this principle can shape our walk with God.
1. Understanding “Striving Lawfully” in the Christian Life
To “strive lawfully” means pursuing goals and growth in our faith in a way that aligns with God’s principles, without compromising on His truth. In sports, athletes are disqualified if they break the rules; likewise, in the Christian life, we cannot “cut corners” or act outside of God’s instructions. God has given us His Word as the foundation and boundary for living faithfully.
In John 14:15, Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Striving lawfully is about living according to God’s Word and following His ways, not just pursuing achievements or growth for our own sake. It’s a reminder that God’s blessing is found in obedience, as we pursue His purposes with integrity and commitment.
2. Obedience Over Compromise
One of the core elements of striving lawfully is choosing obedience over compromise. In a world that often promotes shortcuts and self-interest, the Christian is called to a higher standard. Proverbs 10:9 reminds us, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” Striving lawfully means walking in integrity and resisting the urge to compromise our values for temporary gains.
Sometimes, the path of obedience might seem slower or more challenging, but it ultimately leads to lasting success in God’s eyes. It’s better to follow God’s way, even if it costs us something, than to achieve “success” that requires disobedience or dishonesty. In the end, God honors those who honor Him with obedience and sincerity (1 Samuel 2:30).
3. Walking in the Spirit and Bearing Fruit
Striving lawfully also means being led by the Holy Spirit rather than by our flesh. Galatians 5:16-17 tells us, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.” To strive lawfully, we must follow the Spirit’s guidance rather than acting on selfish motives or pursuing selfish ambitions.
As we walk in the Spirit, our lives will bear the fruits of love, patience, kindness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These fruits are evidence that we’re striving lawfully, working in harmony with God’s character and His purposes for our lives. This approach means surrendering our own agendas and trusting God to work through us according to His plan.
4. Faithfulness in Trials and Temptations
Striving lawfully doesn’t mean we won’t face trials or temptations. In fact, it often means that we’ll encounter resistance or challenges precisely because we’re committed to following God’s way. James 1:12 encourages us by saying, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
In trials, striving lawfully means remaining faithful, holding onto our convictions, and trusting God to carry us through. Just as an athlete endures physical strain to reach their goal, we endure challenges in faith, knowing that God uses trials to strengthen us. In temptations, it means choosing God’s way even when it’s difficult, trusting that His grace is sufficient to empower us.
5. The Reward of Striving Lawfully
The promise of striving lawfully is a crown of life and the reward of God’s favor. Paul describes this in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, saying, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness.” Paul’s life exemplifies striving lawfully, staying true to God’s calling even through suffering and persecution.
When we strive lawfully, we experience the peace of knowing we are honoring God, and we lay up rewards for ourselves in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20). The ultimate reward is an eternity with our Lord, who promises that those who are faithful in the small things will be trusted with greater things (Matthew 25:21).
Prayer
Abba Father, in the name of Jesus, thank You for the high calling to strive lawfully, following Your truth and walking in integrity. Teach us to live in obedience to Your Word, to resist compromise, and to trust Your Spirit’s guidance in all we do. Give us strength to endure trials and to overcome temptations, staying faithful to the path You’ve laid out for us. May our lives bring You honor and bring others closer to Your truth. In the almighty name of Jesus, Amen.
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