2 Corinthians 1:23-2:4

New International Version

²³ I call God as my witness^(A)—and I stake my life on it—that it was in order to spare you^(B) that I did not return to Corinth. ²⁴ Not that we lord it over^(C) your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.^(D) 2 ¹ So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you.^{(E) 2} For if I grieve you,^(F) who is left to make me glad but you whom I have grieved? ³ I wrote as I did,^(G) so that when I came I would not be distressed^(H) by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence^(I) in all of you, that you would all share my joy. ⁴ For I wrote you^(J) out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you.