JESUS IS THE SOURCE OF ENDURING HOPE. Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know. 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. - 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5 Our greatest concern for others should be where they stand with Jesus. We have an enemy who subtly seeks our destruction. Affliction (suffering) is a Certainty of the Christian Experience Why are those who love God ‘Destined’ For Affliction (Suffering)? “10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:10-12 ““As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…" - Genesis 50:20 “28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Through Affliction, God is Refining Our Faith “6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. - 1 Peter 1:6-7 Through Affliction, God is Making us More like Jesus. Through Affliction, God is Freeing us from Sin Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word. - Psalm 119:67 It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes. - Psalm 119:71 Through Affliction, God is Forcing us to Rely on Jesus 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.- 2 Corinthians 12:10 Through Affliction God is Giving Us An Opportunity to Encourage Others. God Ultimately Allows Affliction In Our Lives For Our Good and His Glory.