Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize?

Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. … Blessed is the one who perseveres. … Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. … You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. … Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. … Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. … For this world in its present form is passing away.

But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. … Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.

1Co 9:24; 1Co 9:24; He 12:1-2, Ja 1:12, Ja 1:4, He 10:36, 2Co 7:1; Pi 3:14, 1Co 9:26-27, 1Co 7:31; 2Pe 3:13-14, 1Pe 1:13

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.