Hebrews 12:1 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 with perseverance the
race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author
and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured
the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the
throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from
sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. - (NIV84)
1 Corinthians 9:24 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. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict
training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to
get a crown that will last forever.