⁴ I have spoken to you with great frankness; I take great pride in you.^(A) I am greatly encouraged;^(B) in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.^(C)

⁵ For when we came into Macedonia,^(D) we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn^(E)—conflicts on the outside, fears within.^{(F) 6} But God, who comforts the downcast,^(G) comforted us by the coming of Titus,^{(H) 7} and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.