Nobody ever dreams of coming in second place. We dream of winning and becoming champions. Paul’s challenge to the Corinthian church remains relevant for us today. Success in our spiritual life, like success in all areas of life, requires training, dedication, and perseverance. Paul compares the strict training that athletes endure to the spiritual training that is necessary for us to become the spiritual champions God designed us to be. Using images like ‘running’ and ‘boxing’, Paul highlights the importance of being determined in the way we follow after Jesus.