"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. Watch your life and doctrine closely.
Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself
and your hearers" (1 Timothy 4:15,16).