Definition: And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 9:25. It's a really important and somewhat complex idea about striving for excellence – and it’s about avoiding arrogance and pride. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that anyone who wants to be really good at something – whether it’s sports, art, business, or anything else – should be careful not to become overly focused on dominating or being the best. It's about a healthy balance and moderation. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "1 Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things." This means someone who’s trying really hard to be good at something should be calm and moderate in their approach. They shouldn't be obsessed with achieving perfection or being the very best at anything. It’s about striving, but not letting it consume them. "Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown." This is where it gets interesting. "Corruptible crown" means something that can be damaged or tarnished – like a shiny trophy, a beautiful piece of art, or even a successful career. It’s not about inherently bad things; it's about things that are temporary and susceptible to decay. The idea is that this striving for excellence can lead to pride and a desire to be more than you are – ultimately leading to something less valuable. "But we an incorruptible." This is the crucial part. “Incorruptible” means that your true worth doesn’t depend on anything external or temporary. It's about your character, your integrity, and your faith – qualities that are eternal. It’s about being a good person regardless of how successful you become. So, what does it all mean practically? Basically, the verse is urging us to: Don’t let ambition overshadow humility. Focus on serving others and living a moral life, rather than solely chasing personal success. Remember that true worth comes from your relationship with God and your Christian values – not from external achievements. In short, the verse is about striving for excellence but avoiding arrogance. It’s about staying grounded in faith and integrity. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give some real-world examples of how this principle applies?