¹⁸ We know that anyone born of God^(A) does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one^(B) cannot harm them.^(C)

³ But the Lord is faithful,^(A) and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.^(B)

⁴ who gave himself for our sins^(A) to rescue us from the present evil age,^(B) according to the will of our God and Father,^(C)

¹⁰ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.

²⁰ I eagerly expect^(A) and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage^(B) so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body,^(C) whether by life or by death.^{(D) 21} For to me, to live is Christ^(E) and to die is gain. ²² If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! ²³ I am torn between the two: I desire to depart^(F) and be with Christ,^(G) which is better by far; ²⁴ but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. ²⁵ Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, ²⁶ so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.