²⁴ Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it.^(A)

¹⁴ I press on toward the goal, toward the prize of the heavenly^[a] call of God in Christ Jesus.^(A)

The Example of Jesus

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely,^[a] and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us,^(A)

¹¹ I am coming soon; hold fast to what you have, so that no one takes away your crown.

⁷ I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.^{(A) 8} From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing.^(B)

¹⁶ holding forth the word of life so that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.^(A)

⁷ You were running well; who prevented you from obeying the truth?^(A)

²⁶ So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air,

God Replies to Jeremiah

Trial and Temptation

¹² Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord^[a] has promised to those who love him.^(A)