⁶ I’m already being poured out like a sacrifice to God, and the time of my death is near. ⁷ I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. ⁸ At last the champion’s wreath that is awarded for righteousness^[a] is waiting for me. The Lord, who is the righteous^[b] judge, is going to give it to me on that day. He’s giving it not only to me but also to all those who have set their heart on waiting for his appearance.

¹⁶ No one took my side at my first court hearing. Everyone deserted me. I hope that God doesn’t hold it against them! ¹⁷ But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that the entire message would be preached through me and so all the nations could hear it. I was also rescued from the lion’s mouth! ¹⁸ The Lord will rescue me from every evil action and will save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and always. Amen.