2 Thessalonians 2:13-17. Reminded of Paul's encouragement in the passage: 13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord , because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit ... 14 ...that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you... 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us ... 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. ...an encouragement to stand firm: Remember you are loved by God. v13, 16. His love for us is eternal. We are chosen by God, sanctified by the Spirit, united in Christ. 1 John 3:1 - identity first, WE ARE LOVED. Rom 8:39. John 15:13, 17:22. Hold on to th...