When life brings challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or question why difficulties arise. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 3:1-6, offers timeless truths that shift our perspective on hardship, particularly when it comes to suffering for our faith. Drawing from his concern for the Thessalonian believers, Paul provides encouragement and insight that can guide us through our own trials. This passage reminds us that God is at work in our difficulties, using them to strengthen us and others. Here are three perspective-changing truths to hold onto when facing difficulty.
God Will Oftentimes Allow and Author Certain Difficulties in Our Lives
In 1 Thessalonians 3:3-4, Paul writes, “That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.” Paul’s message to the new believers in Thessalonica was clear: hardship is not an accident but part of the Christian journey. The word “appointed” suggests that difficulties are divinely ordained, not random. Just as Jesus faced suffering, those who follow Him should expect trials, especially for their faith.
This truth challenges the notion that the Christian life should always be easy or comfortable. Paul didn’t sugarcoat the reality for the Thessalonians; he warned them from the start that tribulation would come. Whether it’s persecution for faith, financial struggles, health issues, or relational challenges, difficulties are a natural part of life. Yet, they are not without purpose. As 1 Peter 4:12 says, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.” God allows these trials to refine us, and knowing they are part of His plan gives us comfort and purpose in the midst of pain.
God Will Oftentimes Send Another Believer to Encourage and Establish Us in Our Faith
In verse 2, Paul shares his response to the Thessalonians’ struggles: “And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith.” Unable to return to Thessalonica himself, Paul sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage the believers. The word “establish” means to make firm or grounded, while “comfort” implies exhortation and encouragement. God didn’t remove the Thessalonians’ persecution, but He provided support through a fellow believer.
This highlights the vital role of Christian community. When we face trials, God often sends others to walk alongside us, offering strength and encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.” Isolation can be tempting in hardship, but it’s in fellowship—through a timely word, a shared prayer, or a listening ear—that we find stability. Likewise, we are called to be that source of encouragement for others, reaching out to strengthen those who are struggling.
God Will Oftentimes Use Our Grace-Given Resilience to Encourage Others
Finally, in verse 5, Paul expresses his concern: “For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.” Timothy’s report in verse 6 brought good news: the Thessalonians remained steadfast in faith and charity despite persecution. This resilience not only sustained them but also comforted Paul in his own trials. As verse 7 states, “Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith.”
Our faithfulness in hardship can inspire others. When we persevere through trials—whether health struggles, financial pressures, or persecution for our faith—it becomes a testimony of God’s grace. Paul described this as life-giving: “For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord” (verse 8). Our steadfastness can breathe hope into others, showing them that, by God’s grace, they too can endure. A believer who remains faithful despite difficulties becomes a living encouragement, pointing others to the sustaining power of Christ.
Conclusion
As we reflect on 1 Thessalonians 3:1-6, three practical steps emerge. First, reach out to someone this week to encourage and strengthen them. A simple call, text, or note can make a difference. Second, recognize that God is aware of your difficulties and deeply concerned for you. He sees your struggles, even when others don’t. Third, resolve to persevere in faith, knowing that your resilience glorifies God and uplifts others. By God’s grace, we can face trials with a renewed perspective, trusting His purpose and leaning on the support of His people.
