That you endure

so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, - 2 Thessalonians 1v4

One of Paul’s reasons for ‘bragging on’ the church at Thessalonica was simple enough – they endured. Under severe attacks and intense persecution, they simply endured. They held out, they put up with it, and they plodded along. They endured the challenges and just carried on.

Paul says a little later that this is the evidence of trusting in God’s judgement. I can see the reasoning behind that. If we know that at the end of the day God is going to sort it all out, we can put up with anything. If we have hope, we can endure whatever God allows to come our way.

What is the evidence that we are worthy of the kingdom of God (v5)? The answer is clear – enduring and staying faithful.

Paul praised the Thessalonian believers for their patient, faithful endurance. I hope that he could do the same regarding me.