II Thessalonians 2:13 But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. 14 To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.
Paul- believe it or not - was human. He had frustrations and emotional struggles like any man, and any other servant of the Lord. Early in both of his letters to the Thessalonians he says "we always give thanks for you...", and both letters have a fairly positive tone. He can see God at work. But he's a little frustrated. He wants to see more and more love and service and sanctification. So here he says "But we ought to always give thanks to God for you...", as if we really does not feel like it. But he does anyway. He prays for what is best for them, for what we all need as believers: assurance of our salvation, continuing sanctification, standing firm on God's Word and will for our lives. Sometimes we just don't "feel like it." Do it anyway. Pray. Care. Trust. Do the right thing. Wait and watch for God to do more and more, even when you feel like giving up.
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