²⁹ To this end I strenuously^(A) contend^(B) with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.^(C)

¹⁰ But by the grace^(A) of God I am what I am, and his grace to me^(B) was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them^(C)—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.^(D)

¹⁹ and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power^(A) is the same as the mighty strength^(B)

²⁵ Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown^(A) that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.^{(B) 26} Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly;^(C) I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.^{(D) 27} No, I strike a blow to my body^(E) and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.^(F)

¹³ for it is God who works in you^(A) to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.^(B)

⁷ I became a servant of this gospel^(A) by the gift of God’s grace given me^(B) through the working of his power.^(C)

2 I want you to know how hard I am contending^(A) for you and for those at Laodicea,^(B) and for all who have not met me personally.

⁹ But he said to me, “My grace^(A) is sufficient for you, for my power^(B) is made perfect in weakness.^(C)”^(D) Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight^(E) in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships,^(F) in persecutions,^(G) in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.^(H)

²¹ equip you with everything good for doing his will,^(A) and may he work in us^(B) what is pleasing to him,^(C) through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.^(D)