Instead, I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, so that after preaching to others, I myself will not be disqualified [1 Corinthians 9:27 CSB]
The Bible in 1 Corinthians 10:12 makes us understand that if anyone thinks [s]he is standing strong, [s]he should be careful not to fall. It is indeed possible to not practice what you preach as a leader, hence, you ask for the grace of the Father to keep you in check.
“For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do” [Galatians 5:17 ESV].
Because your flesh is in constant war with your Spirit as a man, you must learn how to subject your flesh to your Spirit. That is only when, like the wise man, you will be able to build your house on the rock and the storm shall not come and wash it away. It is mandatory as a leader to know that every word the Holy Spirit gives to your spirit for your followers is as much for you as it is for them.
As the flesh is quick to give in to the desires and thoughts that come to the mind, it is expedient for us to cease every sinful thought before it finds its way into our lifestyle. This is possible as seen in 2 Corinthians 10:5 about ceasing every thought that goes contrary to the knowledge of God.
It would be disappointing, that as a leader with the grace given to you to bring people unto the knowledge of the saving grace of God, you would go astray. Thus, resist giving power to your flesh to control your walk in Christ, lest you be disqualified.
The fact that a man has preached to many is not certain evidence that he will be saved. Likewise, it matters not the number of followers you have as a leader, you can fall off. Do not be the full vessel that empties itself without a taste of its content. Remember, every word given to you for Jerusalem is for you before Jerusalem.
As the NLT version of 1 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right”. If you could capture the emphasis laid, remember to ask for grace for yourself as you teach your flock to build their house on the rock [see Matthew 7:24–29]
Dear Father, I do not want to be disqualified, I pray that You grant me the grace that I shall practice the faith that I teach. In Jesus name, Amen.
Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 10:5
Bible In One Year: Matthew [24–27]
