Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:1-10 - Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians' Faith

1. Perspective: Having a clear picture of trials is essential for Christian maturity.
   • James 1:2-4
     • Testing our faith develops perserverance.
   • 1 Thessalonians 3:2-4
     • Our trials will strenghthen and encourage us in our faith so that we will not be unsettled.
     • We are destined to face trials and we will be persecuted for them.
   • 1 Peter 4:12,13
     • We should not be surprised at the painful trial we will suffer; We will have joy when his glory is revealed.
   • John 16:13
     • The Holy Spirit will lead us to the truth.
2. Perseverance: Faithfully living out those trials, knowing our efforts are not in vain.
   • 1 corinthians 15:58
   • At one point in everyone's life, we may begin to ask ourselves, "Why bother? Why keep on going?"
   • The answer: Your testimony matters. Someone is always watching you, even if you don't know it and scrutinizing you about your faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:6-8
   • Stand firm in our faith.
   • Our testimony (good or bad) will help others draw conlusions about their own faith.

--------------------