This verb denotes competing or contending, particularly as an athlete in games. In 2 Timothy 2:5, Paul uses the athletic metaphor twice in one verse: an athlete does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules. The verb emphasizes the disciplined striving of athletic competition—not casual participation but earnest contending for victory. Paul applies this to Christian life and ministry: like athletes, believers must compete according to rules (God's standards) to receive the prize. It's disciplined, rule-governed striving toward a goal.