We all know that in a race, all the runners bolt for the finish line. But only one will take the prize. When you run, run for the prize. Athletes in training are very strict with themselves, exercising self-control and discipline in preparation and training. And for what? For a wreath that soon withers or is crushed or simply forgotten. That is not the race of the Believer. We run for the crown that we will wear for eternity. So don’t run aimlessly. Be disciplined. Don’t throw punches in the air. Don’t let your eyes drift off the finish line. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Adapted.

Paul’s point is not that that we are in a contest against other believers. Or that only one Christian can succeed. He is using the effort and dedication displayed by athletes as a metaphor for the believer’s race in the pursuit of Christ. Each of us is running our own race. We are not running against fellow believers. We are running to win at achieving God’s Will for our lives. God’s Will for your life is that you be conformed to the image of Christ and by so doing bring honor and glory to God (Note 1). The Christian Mission Statement is to know Him and to make Him known. To be faithful stewards of the Spiritual gifts and opportunities that the Holy Spirit gives us (Note 2). See the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30).

When Paul speaks of running to win he means that Christians should live their faith with purpose, discipline, and perseverance to achieve the ultimate eternal prize of spiritual victory, not just for themselves, but also in winning others to Christ. It involves fully committing to the Christian life, focusing on the goal, and making sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel, just as an athlete trains to win.

The distinction here is not about just being a believer, but a disciple. There are unbelievers, seekers, believers, and disciples. Believers think the race is over with their profession of faith. Disciples are the apostles of the age. They are enroute Samaria and the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

Note 1: Sanctification (becoming conformed to the image of Christ) is the increasing harvest of sticking to the mission. It is the feedstock of Christian growth begun at salvation and completed when God says it is.
Note 2: Our abilities, skills, talents, strengths, time, treasure, passions, and experience (family, educational, vocational, spiritual, ministry both the good and the painful).