2 Thessalonians 1:3-4

v3: Paul is thankful to God that the Thessalonians "were not only true Christians but also growing Christians." Having thanked God "for their faith, love, and endurance" in his first letter, he now gives thanks "for the increase of all these graces."  Where there is growth in us or others in the church, "God must receive all the glory for it."

v4: The Thessalonians endured persecution and trouble "with patience, that is, not with indifference, but with perseverance arising from Christ’s resources within them, which kept them quiet and submissive, giving them inner strength and support."  They give to us an example to follow.