1. From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. God sent me to tell about the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.
2. To Timothy, a dear child to me:Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3. I thank God as I always mention you in my prayers, day and night. I serve him, doing what I know is right as my ancestors did.
4. Remembering that you cried for me, I want very much to see you so I can be filled with joy.
5. I remember your true faith. That faith first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice, and I know you now have that same faith.
6. This is why I remind you to keep using the gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. Now let it grow, as a small flame grows into a fire.
7. God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid but a spirit of power and love and self-control.