17. But my life might even be poured out like a drink offering on your sacrifices. I'm talking about the way you serve because you believe. Even so, I am glad. I am joyful with all of you.
18. So you too should be glad and joyful with me.
19. I hope to send Timothy to you soon if the Lord Jesus allows it. Then I will be cheered up when I receive news about you.
20. I have no one else like Timothy. He truly cares about how you are doing.
21. All the others are looking out for their own interests. They are not looking out for the interests of Jesus Christ.
22. But you know that Timothy has proved himself. He has served with me like a son with his father in spreading the good news.
23. So I hope to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.
24. And I'm sure I myself will come soon if the Lord allows it.
25. But I think it's necessary to send Epaphroditus back to you. He is my brother in the Lord. He is a worker and a soldier of Christ together with me. He is also your messenger. You sent him to take care of my needs.