Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we decided to be left alone in Athens; and we sent Timothy, our brother and co-worker for God in proclaiming the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you for the sake of your faith, so that no one would be shaken by these persecutions. Indeed, you yourselves know that this is what we are destined for. – 1 Thessalonians 3:1-3 

Trials come to us in different forms, and they often make us feel discouraged. The Believers in the church of Thessalonica were experiencing tremendous persecution because they had become followers of Christ. The Apostle Paul could not go to them, so he sent Timothy. He was the person he had trained and taught, to encourage and help strengthen them. In this passage, we can find two significant truths regarding trials. First, those who undergo trials need encouragement and support from their fellow Christians. It reminds us to help others who are suffering through trials. Words of encouragement and prayer can help those who are suffering a lot. Second, it reminds us that trials are common to Christians. Paul told the believers in Thessalonica they would experience persecutions. What was important to Paul was that these Christians would be encouraged and strengthened when trials came to them. He wanted them to stand firm in their faith and recognize that it is essential for us Christians to take care of our fellow brethren and help protect their faith