The Book of 2nd Thessalonians - A Future with Hope

"But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance."
- 2 Thessalonians 3:3-5

The second letter to the church in Thessalonica aims to encourage the people of that congregation in the midst of great struggle, persecution, and evil.  They are a church facing external harassment from the authorities in their town but they are also a church that has devolved into arguing and disagreement about core aspects of their Christian faith.  This letter aims to encourage and uplift the troubled people of Thessalonica, reminding them that God is just and that faithful living, even during difficult times, is the best path forward.
 
As we read this book in our present day, we can glean all sorts of encouragement from this historic document.  We too will find ourselves in moments where trouble seems to be all around and yet, just like the people of Thessalonica, we can look toward the future with hope and in the mean time we can continue to faithfully follow the commands and guidance of God.