The Message Bible MSG
English Standard Version ESV
6 So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time.
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Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,
7 Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
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casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
8 Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping.
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Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
9 Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith.
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Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
10 The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ - eternal and glorious plans they are! - will have you put together and on your feet for good.
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And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
11 He gets the last word; yes, he does.
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To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
12 I'm sending this brief letter to you by Silas, a most dependable brother. I have the highest regard for him. I've written as urgently and accurately as I know how. This is God's generous truth; embrace it with both arms!
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By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.
13 The church in exile here with me - but not for a moment forgotten by God - wants to be remembered to you. Mark, who is like a son to me, says hello.
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She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.
14 Give holy embraces all around! Peace to you - to all who walk in Christ's ways.
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Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.