1. From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus.God himself chose me to be an apostle, and he gave me the promised life that Jesus Christ makes possible.
2. Timothy, you are like a dear child to me. I pray that God our Father and our Lord Christ Jesus will be kind and merciful to you and will bless you with peace!
3. Night and day I mention you in my prayers. I am always grateful for you, as I pray to the God my ancestors and I have served with a clear conscience.
4. I remember how you cried, and I want to see you, because that will make me truly happy.
5. I also remember the genuine faith of your mother Eunice. Your grandmother Lois had the same sort of faith, and I am sure that you have it as well.
6. So I ask you to make full use of the gift that God gave you when I placed my hands on you. Use it well.
7. God's Spirit doesn't make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.