I hope, however, as one who trusts in the Lord Jesus, to send Timothy to you before long, so that I may myself be cheered by receiving news of you.

For I have no one but him to send--no one of kindred spirit who would take the same genuine interest in your welfare.

It is Timothy, then, whom I hope to send, as soon as ever I can foresee how it will go with me.

Still I think it necessary to send Epaphroditus to you now, for he is my brother, fellow-worker, and fellow-soldier, and he was also your messenger to help me in my need.

I am all the more ready, therefore, to send him, so that the sight of him may revive your spirits and my own sorrow be lightened.

For it was owing to his devotion to the Master's work that he was at the point of death, having risked his own life in the effort to supply what was wanting in the help that you sent me.

Indeed, even while I was still in Thessalonica, you sent more than once to relieve my wants.

My wants are fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts which you sent me--the sweet fragrance of a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.

Give my greeting to every one of the People of Christ Jesus. The Brothers who are with me send your their greetings.

All Christ's People here, and especially those who belong to the Emperor's household, send theirs.