Matthew 24:45-46
"Who then, is the trustworthy and sensible slave, to whom his master has assigned the management of his household to provide timely meals for its members?
2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good battle; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith [i.e., I have been true to my commitment].
1 Peter 5:4
And when the Supreme Shepherd [i.e., Jesus] comes back, you will receive [for your effort] a glorious crown [of reward] that will never fade away [Note: The idea of "fading away" is suggested by the laurel wreath bestowed on the winner of an athletic contest].
Revelation 2:10
Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer. [For] look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you may be tested, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. [But], you should be faithful [to God] even to the point of dying [for Him], and I will give you the crown of [never ending] life.