Let such a person consider this: What we say ¹  by letters when we are absent, we also are in actions when we are present.

Therefore we are always full of courage, and we know that as long as we are alive here on earth ¹  we are absent from the Lord –

I said before when I was present the second time and now, though absent, I say again to those who sinned previously and to all the rest, that if I come again, I will not spare anyone, ¹ 

Because of this I am writing these things while absent, so that when I arrive ¹  I may not have to deal harshly with you ²  by using my authority – the Lord gave it to me for building up, not for tearing down!

Thus we are full of courage and would prefer to be away ¹  from the body and at home with the Lord.

So then whether we are alive ¹  or away, we make it our ambition to please him. ² 

Now I, Paul, appeal to you ¹  personally ²  by the meekness and gentleness ³  of Christ (I who am meek ⁴  when present among ⁵  you, but am full of courage ⁶  toward you when away!) –