We have been studying Paul’s letters to the saints in Thessalonica who are under much affliction when they received the word of God (1 Thess. 1:6). Paul refers to a time when he and Silas came to Thessalonica and suffered and were shamefully treated (Acts 17:1-8: 1 Thess. 2:2) and in the 14th verse Paul noted the saints there now “suffered the same things” from their own countrymen (2:14).
Now, we are in the third chapter of this first letter and Paul says to them, “that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this” (1 Thess. 3:3). When, for your faith, you are despitefully treated, suffer much persecution, face various trials, you should not be shaken, rather keep your heart, your eyes focused on eternity, on the coming of Christ.
This can only be accomplished if we first accept the word of God “…as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” (1 Thess. 2:13). Secondly, know God will judge (1 Thess. 2:16), which will allow you freedom to focus on what is important and commanded, such as evangelism, study, fellowship with the brotherhood, and freedom to forgive and move forward. We are able to withstand adversity—trials—suffering for the sake of Christ, all manner of evil, hate, adversity, because we know that God will deal with them—God will judge your enemies.
Paul wrote to the church at Roman – “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord” (12:19). The comfort is in knowing that God will handle the evil—God will judge the nations—that when their cup is full—God will release His wrath. Comforting because it removes the responsibility from each one of them—and us. That opens the door for you to “…love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you…”
o To be “sons of your Father in heaven;” (Matt. 5:44, 45) and “to go the extra mile” (v.41). When we can let go of the feeling that we need to judge—then we can focus on the need to tell – even our enemies about Jesus. . .