²³ I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me^(A) that prison and hardships are facing me.^{(B) 24} However, I consider my life worth nothing to me;^(C) my only aim is to finish the race^(D) and complete the task^(E) the Lord Jesus has given me^(F)—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.^(G)

²³ I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

The Need for Self-Discipline

²⁴ Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize?^(A) Run^(B) in such a way as to get the prize. ²⁵ Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown^(C) that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.^(D)

⁷ I have fought the good fight,^(A) I have finished the race,^(B) I have kept the faith.

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run^(A) with perseverance^(B) the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus,^(C) the pioneer^(D) and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,^(E) scorning its shame,^(F) and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.^{(G) 3} Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary^(H) and lose heart.