I am thankful to God, whom I have served with a clear conscience as my ancestors did, when I remember you in my prayers as I do constantly night and day.

As I remember your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.

Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set and I am convinced that he is able to protect what has been entrusted to me until that day.

And entrust what you heard me say in the presence of many others as witnesses to faithful people who will be competent to teach others as well.

Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he will not be crowned as the winner unless he competes according to the rules.

for which I suffer hardship to the point of imprisonment as a criminal, but God's message is not imprisoned!

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.

And just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these people -- who have warped minds and are disqualified in the faith -- also oppose the truth.

as well as the persecutions and sufferings that happened to me in Antioch, in Iconium, and in Lystra. I endured these persecutions and the Lord delivered me from them all.

For I am already being poured out as an offering, and the time for me to depart is at hand.