JOY 2 Corinthians 1:23-24

I call God as my witness--and I stake my life on it--that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm. 

I call God as my witness 
Romans 1:9-10a  God, whom I serve in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times; ...

that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth 
1 Corinthians 4:21  What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?
2 Corinthians 2:1-3  So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you. For if I grieve you, who is left to make me glad but you whom I have grieved? I wrote as I did, so that when I came I would not be distressed by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would all share my joy.
2 Corinthians 13:2  I already gave you a warning when I was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent: On my return I will not spare those who sinned earlier or any of the others, ...
2 Corinthians 13:10  This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority--the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.

Not that we lord it over your faith 
1 Peter 5:3  ... not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

because it is by faith you stand firm 
Romans 11:20-21  Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.
1 Corinthians 15:1  Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand.

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.