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¹ When we could not wait any longer, we decided it was best to stay in Athens alone ² and send Timothy to you. Timothy, our brother, works with us for God and helps us tell people the Good News about Christ. We sent him to strengthen and encourage you in your faith ³ so none of you would be upset by these troubles. You yourselves know that we must face these troubles. ⁴ Even when we were with you, we told you we all would have to suffer, and you know it has happened. ⁵ Because of this, when I could wait no longer, I sent Timothy to you so I could learn about your faith. I was afraid the devil had tempted you, and perhaps our hard work would have been wasted.

⁶ But Timothy now has come back to us from you and has brought us good news about your faith and love. He told us that you always remember us in a good way and that you want to see us just as much as we want to see you. ⁷ So, brothers and sisters, while we have much trouble and suffering, we are encouraged about you because of your faith. ⁸ Our life is really full if you stand strong in the Lord. ⁹ We have so much joy before our God because of you. We cannot thank him enough for all the joy we feel. ¹⁰ Night and day we continue praying with all our heart that we can see you again and give you all the things you need to make your faith strong.

¹¹ Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus prepare the way for us to come to you. ¹² May the Lord make your love grow more and multiply for each other and for all people so that you will love others as we love you. ¹³ May your hearts be made strong so that you will be holy and without fault before our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.