I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift. The battle is not to the strong. Bread does not go to the wise, or riches to men of understanding. Men of skill do not always receive favor, but time and unexpected circumstance happens to them all.

Jehovah says: Jeremiah, if you get tired racing against people, how can you race against horses? If you cannot even stand up in open country, how will you manage in the thicket by the Jordan?

So run

I do not run without definite aim (purpose) and I do not fight like a man beating the air.

I went in response to a revelation. I demonstrated to them the way I spread the good news among the people of the nations. I did this privately before them for they have a reputation. I am concerned that by any means I should be running, or had run, in vain.

You were running well! Who hindered you that you should not obey the truth?

Hold fast to the word of life so I may rejoice in the day of Christ. That way I will not have labored in vain.

I press on toward the goal to the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

I have fought the good fight! I have finished the course! I have kept the faith!

A great cloud of witnesses surround us. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that easily entangles us. Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.

The man who endures under trial is blessed. For when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life that God promised to those who love him.

I come quickly: hold fast what you have so that no one will take your crown.