I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.  (Phil 3:14)  Paul is saying here that he pursues the reward of living a life in serving God through Jesus Christ.  He considers it a high [important, exalted] calling.

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  (1 Cor 9:24)  The apostle is encouraging believers to live their lives as winners and as people who will cross the finish line.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ⁸ Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.  (2 Tim 4:7-8)

In these various passages of Scripture, we believers are being encouraged, influenced and motivated to:

• Fight the good fight,
• Finish the race, and
• Keep the faith.

Just as in any type of race or physical sport, we need to stay spiritually fit to take part in this spiritual race.  We are encouraged to be persistent and consistent, as well as to be constant and committed to our faith.

This is, indeed, a high calling—an important and exalted mission to which Christ has called us and has enabled us by His grace.  Let us rejoice in Him!