1 Thessalonians 3

Unable to bear his separation and anxious about their faith under affliction, Paul had sent Timothy “to establish and exhort you in your faith,” lest the tempter had shaken them. Now Timothy has returned with “good news of your faith and love,” and Paul is comforted and full of joy: “For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.” He gives thanks and prays earnestly to see them and to “supply what is lacking in your faith,” asking God to make their love “increase and abound” and to establish their hearts “blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus.”