Paul and his companions "always"prayed that the Thessalonians would continue to experience purification through their trials rather than experience apostasy. They also prayed that God would note and approve their worth.
"God counts men worthy as they consent to and endeavor to do that which He works in them."23
He also asked that God would by His power bring to full expression every good purpose of theirs to glorify God and every act motivated by their faith in Him. The ultimate goal was the glory of the Lord Jesus manifested through the Thessalonian believers. This is the first of five prayers for the Thessalonians contained in this short letter (cf. 2:16-17; 3:5, 16, 18).
". . . Christlike behavior is more important than words of praise in the glorifying of the Lord. For praise from a life transformed by the power of the Spirit rings true and sweet, but godless living makes a mockery of praise."24
This section of verses (1:3-12) gives us great insight into God's reasons for allowing His saints to undergo affliction for their faith. Persecution can be a great blessing from God and can bring great glory to our Lord Jesus Christ both now and in the future.
