26 So I do not run like one who runs aimlessly or box like one beating the air. 27 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 9:26-27 CSB)

If you have ever trained for an event, or simply worked to keep yourself in shape you know one thing; you must discipline your body. You must bring it under strict control so that when the event comes up you are in peak condition.

There is resistance which we must turn into performance. Think about that for a moment. Our lives are very much the same even if we are not training for an event. We encounter resistance (difficulties, lack of desire, financial constraints, time constraints) and we must turn that resistance into performance.

In our spiritual life it is just the same. There is resistance from our sin nature and the enemy that we must bring under strict control, disciplining ourselves to reach the goal set before us.