1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:1 But I, my brothers, although torn from you for a short season (in presence, not in heart), made eager efforts to behold you face to face with strong longing.

MNT⁽ⁱ⁾ ¹⁷ But I, my brothers, although torn from you for a short season (in presence, not in heart), made eager efforts to behold you face to face with strong longing. ¹⁸ For that reason I would fain have visited you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered me. ¹⁹ For what is my hope, or joy? What is the victor's wreath in which I exult? What but your own selves in the presence of our Lord Jesus, at his coming! ²⁰ For you are my pride and my delight. ³ ¹ And so, when I could no longer bear it, I made up my mind to be left behind at Athens, all alone.