The Path of PerseveranceSample

On the heels of Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonian church, he continues to give insight to the believer intended to build up and guide us through the coming days.

“…we boast of you for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure…that you might be counted worthy of the Kingdom of God, for which you also suffer…” 2 Thessalonians 1:4-5

In this chapter, Paul continues to address the trials of this faith-filled church in the midst of an incredibly persecuting culture. Does this sound familiar? Opening the book with encouragement to this community, he points to the greater Day — “when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified with His saints…” Though there are trials of many kinds on the earth today, we can remain in faith, knowing that there is a day when Jesus Himself will judge.

1. What does it mean for me and my community and/or family to hold fast to our faith despite opposition?
2. Verse 5 says that trials and persecutions are “manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God…” Take some time to meditate on this—the Lord is just.