"But I do not consider my life of any account
as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry
which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the
gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24). "Be diligent in these
matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see
your progress. ...
"Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud
of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so
easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is
set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our
faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,
despising...