1 4 I thank my God always when I mention you in my prayers, 1 5 for I hear of your love and faith towards the Lord Jesus and towards all God's people. 1 6 My prayer is that your fellowship with us in our common faith may deepen the understanding of all the blessings that our union with Christ brings us. 1 7 For I am delighted and encouraged by your love: through you, my brother. God's people have been much refreshed.