1 Corinthians 9:26
26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.
Other Translations of 1 Corinthians 9:26
King James Version
26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
English Standard Version
26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air.
The Message
26 I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me!
New King James Version
26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
New Living Translation
26 So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:26
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
(Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27)
The apostle compares himself to the racers and combatants in the Isthmian games, well known by the Corinthians. But in the Christian race all may run so as to obtain. There is the greatest encouragement, therefore, to persevere with all our strength, in this course. Those who ran in these games were kept to a spare diet. They used themselves to hardships. They practised the exercises. And those who pursue the interests of their souls, must combat hard with fleshly lusts. The body must not be suffered to rule. The apostle presses this advice on the Corinthians. He sets before himself and them the danger of yielding to fleshly desires, pampering the body, and its lusts and appetites. Holy fear of himself was needed to keep an apostle faithful: how much more is it needful for our preservation! Let us learn from hence humility and caution, and to watch against dangers which surround us while in the body.