Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get 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; 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.