in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, so that we could receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.

But just as at that time the one born by natural descent persecuted the one born according to the Spirit, so it is now.

So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who belong to the family of faith.

Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make everything known to you, so that you too may know about my circumstances, how I am doing.

for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice together with all of you.

So then, my brothers and sisters, dear friends whom I long to see, my joy and crown, stand in the Lord in this way, my dear friends!

For those who have served well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

For the scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker deserves his pay.”

Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately.

For some of these insinuate themselves into households and captivate weak women who are overwhelmed with sins and led along by various passions.

But now in his own time he has made his message evident through the preaching I was entrusted with according to the command of God our Savior.

However, without your consent I did not want to do anything, so that your good deed would not be out of compulsion, but from your own willingness.

Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that would be spoken.

For the ground that has soaked up the rain that frequently falls on it and yields useful vegetation for those who tend it receives a blessing from God.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and not hypocritical.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, make every effort to be sure of your calling and election. For by doing this you will never stumble into sin.

By the sweat of your brow you will eat food until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you will return.”

So Laban asked, “What should I give you?” “You don’t need to give me a thing,” Jacob replied, “but if you agree to this one condition, I will continue to care for your flocks and protect them:

Let my lord go on ahead of his servant. I will travel more slowly, at the pace of the herds and the children, until I come to my lord at Seir.”