Now I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus, the Messiah, and by the love that the Spirit produces, to join me in my struggle, earnestly praying to God for me

For God is my witness how much I long for all of you with the compassion that the Messiah Jesus provides.

For he has been longing for all of you and is troubled because you heard that he was sick.

Brothers, although we have been separated from you for a little while in person but not in heart we eagerly desire to see you again face to face.

Therefore, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to remain alone in Athens

Being

I served the Lord with all humility, with tears, and with trials that came to me through the plots of the Jews.

because the lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. He will lead them to springs filled with the water of life, and God will wipe every tear from their eyes."

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There won't be death anymore. There won't be any grief, crying, or pain, because the first things have disappeared."

Filled

Those who weep while they plant will sing for joy while they harvest.

to provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, a mantle of praise instead of a spirit of despair." "Then people will call them "Oaks of Righteousness", "The Planting of the LORD", in order to display his splendor.

The virgins will rejoice with dancing, together with young men and old men. For I'll turn their mourning into joy, and I'll comfort them and give them gladness instead of sorrow.

Now you are having pain. But I'll see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.

We are writing these things so that our joy may be full.

General references

Do your best to come to me soon,