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For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour. But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack--rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.] After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in union with Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you, and a sure foundation. To Him be dominion (power, authority, sovereignty) forever and ever. Amen

Like an apple tree [rare and welcome] among the trees of the forest,

So is my beloved among the young men!

In his shade I took great delight and sat down,

And his fruit was sweet and delicious to my palate.

He has brought me to his banqueting place,

And his banner over me is love [waving overhead to protect and comfort me].

Sustain me with raisin cakes,

Refresh me with apples,

Because I am sick with love.

Let his left hand be under my head

And his right hand embrace me. Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed) by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.

I thank God, whom I worship and serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, and as I recall your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy.