3 so none of you would be upset by these troubles. You yourselves know that we must face these troubles.
4 Even when we were with you, we told you we all would have to suffer, and you know it has happened.
5 Because of this, when I could wait no longer, I sent Timothy to you so I could learn about your faith. I was afraid the devil had tempted you, and perhaps our hard work would have been wasted.
6 But Timothy now has come back to us from you and has brought us good news about your faith and love. He told us that you always remember us in a good way and that you want to see us just as much as we want to see you.
7 So, brothers and sisters, while we have much trouble and suffering, we are encouraged about you because of your faith.
8 Our life is really full if you stand strong in the Lord.
9 We have so much joy before our God because of you. We cannot thank him enough for all the joy we feel.