¹⁰ “As for us, the Lord is our God, and we have not forsaken him. The priests who serve the Lord are sons of Aaron, and the Levites assist them. ¹¹ Every morning and evening^(A) they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense^(B) to the Lord. They set out the bread on the ceremonially clean table^(C) and light the lamps^(D) on the gold lampstand every evening. We are observing the requirements of the Lord our God. But you have forsaken him. ¹² God is with us; he is our leader. His priests with their trumpets will sound the battle cry against you.^(E) People of Israel, do not fight against the Lord,^(F) the God of your ancestors, for you will not succeed.”^(G)

Final Exhortations

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!^{(A) 5} Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.^{(B) 6} Do not be anxious about anything,^(C) but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.^{(D) 7} And the peace of God,^(E) which transcends all understanding,^(F) will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.^(G) And the God of peace^(H) will be with you.

Thanks for Their Gifts

¹⁰ I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me.^(I) Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content^(J) whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,^(K) whether living in plenty or in want.^{(L) 13} I can do all this through him who gives me strength.^(M)