The Christian life is consistently portrayed as a challenging and essential "race of endurance," a determined struggle requiring the utmost vigilance, self-denial, and commitment to maintain physical and moral stamina. This spiritual contest, set before believers, necessitates running with patience and looking continuously unto Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith Hebrews 12:1-2. It is not only a race but also a severe and trying warfare waged not merely against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, and spiritual wickedness in high places Ephesians 6:12 .