In 2 Thessalonians 1, Paul begins by offering encouragement to the Thessalonian believers. He says he thanks God for this young church because their faith is flourishing and their love for one another is growing. What a powerful thing to tell any believer! This body of new converts is showing very positive signs and it hasn’t been easy. They have endured persecution, trials, and tribulations that could have broken them, but they have persevered.