6. Running for the Prize

Paul admits he has not “already obtained” the prize but presses on because Christ has already taken hold of him. Our perseverance is not self-rescue; it is response. Like a marathoner who runs because the finish medal is already guaranteed, we run the race of faith fueled by the assurance that Christ has won.

Forgetting what lies behind means loosening the grip of both shame and pride. Past failures can’t disqualify the believer, and past achievements can’t define the believer. The gospel frees us from the weight of yesterday so we can stride into the future God has prepared.

This race is not a solo sprint. Paul calls the Philippians to follow his example and stand firm together. We run side by side, encouraging each other when the road feels endless. Community is God’s strategy for endurance.

In the end, perseverance is not about grit alone—it’s about grace. Jesus, the true finisher of faith, already crossed the line. Our running is simply keeping in step with the One who promises: “The crown of life is sure, because I said, ‘It’s done.’”

Lyrics

Verse 1
The road behind is fading,
The crowd’s a distant sound.
I’ve stumbled, I’ve been waiting,
But I’m not turning around.
The One who called me forward
Has already made me His—
So I run through pain and silence
For the joy of what He gives.

Pre-Chorus
Not for glory, not for fame,
But to know the power of His name.

Chorus
I’m running for the prize,
Eyes fixed on the rising Son.
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”
No past can hold me down,
No shadow stops this run.

Verse 2
The wind cuts cold and heavy,
The miles stretch long and thin.
Yet I hear His heartbeat steady,
A victory born within.
He reached for me in mercy,
Now His Spirit fuels my stride.
Every step is grace in motion,
Every breath is crucified.

Bridge
I press on—
Through the night, through the fight, till I see His light.
I press on—
Till the day my faith becomes sight.

Final Chorus
I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”

I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”

I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”

I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”

I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”

I’m running for the prize…
The crown of life is sure,
Because He said, “It’s done.”