since it was because of the work of Christ that he almost died. He risked his life so that he could make up for your inability to serve me.

Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God.

And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me, do these things. And the God of peace will be with you.

For I have received everything, and I have plenty. I have all I need because I received from Epaphroditus what you sent – a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, very pleasing to God.

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those who have not met me face to face.

And even though you were dead in your transgressions and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, he nevertheless made you alive with him, having forgiven all your transgressions.

Let the peace of Christ be in control in your heart (for you were in fact called as one body to this peace), and be thankful.

I sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are doing and that he may encourage your hearts.

with such affection for you we were happy to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.

For how can we thank God enough for you, for all the joy we feel because of you before our God?

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who labor among you and preside over you in the Lord and admonish you,

Now may the Lord direct your hearts toward the love of God and the endurance of Christ.

and we did not eat anyone’s food without paying. Instead, in toil and drudgery we worked night and day in order not to burden any of you.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all.

Everyone with me greets you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.

But exhort one another each day, as long as it is called “Today,” that none of you may become hardened by sin’s deception.

As it says, “Oh, that today you would listen as he speaks! Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.”

For in fact you shared the sufferings of those in prison, and you accepted the confiscation of your belongings with joy, because you knew that you certainly had a better and lasting possession.

Think of him who endured such opposition against himself by sinners, so that you may not grow weary in your souls and give up.

Remember your leaders, who spoke God’s message to you; reflect on the outcome of their lives and imitate their faith.