Definition of Flourish: to be healthy and thriving; to blossom; to be at the height of influence

Introduction: Paul encourages the church in Thessalonica by giving them 3 ways to stay strong in their faith and continue to flourish, even while he himself is facing trials.

He Sent Them a Friend (I Thessalonians 3:1-5; Philippians 2:19-22)

Three reasons Paul sent Timothy to the church

• To Establish the church (II Timothy 3:16-17; II Timothy 4:1-2)

• To Encourage the church

• To Inquire concerning the church

He Wrote Them a Letter (I Thessalonians 3:6-8)

God’s Word:

• Food to Nourish Us (Matthew 4:4)

• Light to Guide Us (Psalm 119:105)

• A Weapon to Defend Us (Ephesians 6:17)

He Prayed for Them (I Thessalonians 3:9-13)

Paul’s three specific requests for the church:

• That their faith might mature
• That their love might abound
• That they would live holy lives

Application: I Corinthians 15:57-58 ESV “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”