“But now when Timothy came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: for now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 3:6-8 (KJV)

Because of the testimony of the people which Timothy brought back to the apostle he was very encouraged by their faith.

Every Christian leader is encouraged, emboldened, and made more alive by the testimony of the changed and vibrant lives of those they have nurtured  in faith, the word and in Christ.

Now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.  That is a good confession from any child of God.  Stand fast.  Stand strong.  Stand sure.