22 If I continue living here on earth, I will be able to work for the Lord. But what would I choose—to live or to die? I don’t know.
23 It would be a hard choice. Sometimes I want to leave this life and be with Christ. That would be much better for me;
24 however, you people need me here alive.
25 I am sure of this, so I know that I will stay here and be with you to help you grow and have joy in your faith.
26 When I am there with you again, you will be bursting with pride over what Christ Jesus did to help me.
27 Just be sure you live as God’s people in a way that honors the Good News of Christ. Then if I come and visit you or if I am away from you, I will hear good things about you. I will know that you stand together with the same purpose and that you work together like a team to help others believe the Good News.
28 And you will not be afraid of those who are against you. All of this is proof from God that you are being saved and that your enemies will be lost.