In Phil 3:12-14, Paul uses the analogy of a race to explain our journey through this life as we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Savior. A good runner does not look back. He keeps his eye on the prize, straining forward to what lies ahead. To strain forward is to lean into the run, exerting all one's effort into reaching the goal. The Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon with patches of rough terrain throughout the course. We are to remain steadfast in our goal. This is achieved, not by our own strength, but by the power of God at work in us. As Heb 12:2 says, we are to run the race with endurance, fixing our eyes upon Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.