Common folk are only a breath, the great are an illusion. Do not put your trust in oppression nor vain hopes on plunder. Do not set your heart on riches even when they increase. Eagerly we await the fulfillment of our hope, the glorious coming of our Savior. While all the runners in the stadium take part in the race, the award goes to one person.
Athletes deny themselves all sorts of things.
They do this to win a crown of leaves that withers, but we a crown that is imperishable. We place all our trust in your unfailing help. My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit.