18. But that doesn’t matter. What is important is that they are telling people about Christ, whether they are sincere or not. So I am glad they are doing it. I will continue to be glad,
19. because I know that your prayers and the help the Spirit of Jesus Christ gives me will cause this trouble to result in my freedom.
20. I am full of hope and feel sure I will not have any reason to be ashamed. I am certain I will continue to have the same boldness to speak freely that I always have. I will let God use my life to bring more honor to Christ. It doesn’t matter whether I live or die.
21. To me, the only important thing about living is Christ. And even death would be for my benefit.
22. If I continue living here on earth, I will be able to work for the Lord. But what would I choose—to live or to die? I don’t know.
23. It would be a hard choice. Sometimes I want to leave this life and be with Christ. That would be much better for me;
24. however, you people need me here alive.