⁵ For when we came into Macedonia,^(A) we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn^(B)—conflicts on the outside, fears within.^{(C) 6} But God, who comforts the downcast,^(D) comforted us by the coming of Titus,^{(E) 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.

¹³ By all this we are encouraged.

In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how happy Titus^(A) was, because his spirit has been refreshed by all of you. ¹⁴ I had boasted to him about you,^(B) and you have not embarrassed me. But just as everything we said to you was true, so our boasting about you to Titus^(C) has proved to be true as well. ¹⁵ And his affection for you is all the greater when he remembers that you were all obedient,^(D) receiving him with fear and trembling.^{(E) 16} I am glad I can have complete confidence in you.^(F)