Paul described his work among the Thessalonians as, "encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God" (2:12). While ministry can be rewarding, there are without a doubt times when Paul and his brothers and sisters in ministry also needed encouragement (3:6-7).
For Paul and his brothers in ministry, a few of the causes behind discouragement were:
Uncertainty. (Acts 16:6-40)
2. Hostility. (Acts 17:1 9)
3. Anxiety. (2:17-18)
Those whom Paul was writing to in Thessalonia also faced discouragement through the following:
1. Physical danger. (1:6)
2. Spiritual doubt. (3:5)
3. Social disruption. (2:17)
Some ways we can find encouragement:
1. The Word of God
2. Prayer
3. Thankfulness
4. Humility.
