We all like to win but its hard to put in the work necessary to win and then, even with the work, we win a medal or trophy that never lasts. Paul challenges us to think about living as if we are running a race for the ultimate prize that will never fade and alway be practicing for that race. If we live our life of faith like we are in training then we will be ready when challenges inevitably come our way.
We've all received bad advice and we've all given bad advice. It can be hard to tell the good from the bad until we experience the consequences but if we put our trust in God we can be sure that He will not lead us astray.