I Thessalonians 3:1-3

"Therefore when we were out of patience, we took pleasure in being abandoned in Athens all alone." (I Thessalonians 3:1)

It was not easy for Paul to be left alone in Athens. He wanted help. But he was impatient for news from the Thessalonians.

"So we sent Timothy, our brother and a fellow-worker of God in the Good News of Christ. We sent him to help you stand firm and to encourage your faith." (I Thessalonians 3:2)

Paul sent to the Thessalonians Timothy, who would have been a big help to Paul in Athens. But he wanted Timothy to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians in their Christian walk.

"To make sure that none of you are enticed in these afflictions. For you all know that this is our destiny." (I Thessalonians 3:3)

Paul was concerned that the believers would be encouraged to leave the faith in the midst of persecution and problems. Paul reminds them that the Christian's destiny is to suffer. Jesus suffered; we will suffer.