Paul’s Longing to See the Thessalonians

¹⁷ But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought),^(A) out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you.^{(B) 18} For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan^(C) blocked our way.^{(D) 19} For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown^(E) in which we will glory^(F) in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes?^(G) Is it not you? ²⁰ Indeed, you are our glory^(H) and joy.

3 So when we could stand it no longer,^(I) we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens.^{(J) 2} We sent Timothy,^(K) who is our brother and co-worker^(L) in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ,^(M) to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, ³ so that no one would be unsettled by these trials.^(N) For you know quite well that we are destined for them.^{(O) 4} In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know.^{(P) 5} For this reason, when I could stand it no longer,^(Q) I sent to find out about your faith.^(R) I was afraid that in some way the tempter^(S) had tempted you and that our labors might have been in vain.^(T)