II Thessalonians 1-3

“May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word” (2:16-17). Although the Thessalonians were enduring persecution patiently (1:4), they were also being disturbed by rumors about “the day of the Lord” (2:1). Paul wanted them to remain steadfast, focused on doing good in the present, and to “stand firm and hold fast to the teachings” (2:15).

Until Jesus returns, God calls us to remain faithful to our daily work, in his name. He will “bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith” (1:11).