²⁹ For this I toil and strive with all the energy that he powerfully inspires within me.^(A)

¹⁰ But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I but the grace of God that is with me.^(A)

¹⁹ and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.

²⁵ Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one.^{(A) 26} So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air, ²⁷ but I punish my body and enslave it, so that after proclaiming to others I myself should not be disqualified.^(B)

¹³ for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

⁷ Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given me by the working of his power.

2 For I want you to know how greatly I strive for you and for those in Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face.

⁹ but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power^[a] is made perfect in weakness.” So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.^{(A) 10} Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ, for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.^(B)

²¹ make you complete in everything good^[a] so that you may do his will, as he works among us^[b] that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever.^[c] Amen.^(A)

¹² Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ,^[a] greets you. He is always striving in his prayers on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured^[b] in everything that God wills.^(A)