Ephesians 3:13
“Therefore I ask that you may not lose heart at my troubles for you, which are your glory.”
What does Ephesians 3:13 mean?
Paul is writing from prison, and he doesn't want the Ephesians to be discouraged by the hardships he's facing because of his faith and his work among them. He's essentially saying, "Don't feel guilty or defeated on my account" and then flips it beautifully by reminding them that his suffering actually reflects their faith and significance. In other words, the troubles he endures because of his commitment to them are actually a sign of how important and valuable their spiritual community is. It's a profound gesture of love, where Paul reframes his own pain as something that honors them rather than burdens them with shame.