Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice!

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content in any circumstance.

I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. ¹  Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account.

Yes, I say also to you, true companion, ¹  help them. They have struggled together in the gospel ministry ²  along with me and Clement and my other coworkers, whose names are in the book of life.

For many live, about whom I have often told you, and now, with tears, I tell you that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ.

Beware of the dogs, ¹  beware of the evil workers, beware of those who mutilate the flesh! ² 

Now if I am to go on living in the body, ¹  this will mean productive work ²  for me, yet I don’t know which I prefer: ³ 

So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, continue working out your salvation with awe and reverence, ¹ 

Not that I have already attained this – that is, I have not already been perfected – but I strive to lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus also laid hold of me. ¹ 

Finally, brothers and sisters, ¹  whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.