Pray for Us

1Finally, •brothers, pray for us that the Lord’s message may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you,a 2and that we may be deliveredb from wicked and evil men, for not all have faith.c 3But the Lord is faithful; He will strengthen and guard you from the evil one.d 4We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will do what we command. 5May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance.e

Warning against Irresponsible Behavior

6Now we command you, brothers, in the namef of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brotherg who •walks irresponsibly and not according to the traditionh receivedi from us. 7For you yourselves know how you must imitatej us: We were not irresponsible among you; 8we did not eatk anyone’s foodl free of charge;m instead, we laboredn and struggled,o workingp night and day, so that we would not be a burdenq to any of you. 9It is not that we don’t have the rightr to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitates us. 10In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”t 11For we hear that there are some among you who walk irresponsibly, not working at all, but interfering with the work of others.u 12Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ that quietly working, they may eat their own food.v 13Brothers, do not grow wearyw in doing good.

14And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. 15Yet don’t treat him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

Final Greetings

16May the Lord of peacex Himself give you peace always in every way.y The Lord be with all of you.z 17This greeting is in my own handaa — Paul. This is a sign in every letter; this is how I write. 18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.