1And so, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to remain in Athens alone, 2And we sent Timothy, our brother and co-worker in the ministry of God, and in spreading of the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith; 3So that no one would be shaken by these afflictions that we suffer; for you, yourselves, know that we are destined for these troubles. 4For you know what we told you before, when we were with you, that we should suffer tribulation; just as it came to be. 5For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to learn of your faith, out of concern that some tempter might have tempted you, and undone our labor for you.

6But Timothy has just now returned to us, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you have good memories of us, and greatly desire to see us, as we also desire to see you; 7Therefore, brothers and sisters, we were encouraged by your faith, amidst all our affliction and distress; 8For now we have new life (renewed assurance), because you are standing firm in the Lord. 9How can we thank God enough for you, in return for all the joy we have in the presence of God because of you? 10We earnestly pray night and day that we might see you again, and supply whatever might be lacking in your faith.

11Now may God, our Father, Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, clear our way to visit you. 12And may the Lord cause you to grow and overflow in love toward each other, and toward all men, just as we also do toward you, 13So that He may strengthen your hearts in holiness, being blameless before God, our Father, when our Lord, Jesus Christ, returns with all His saints.