2 Thessalonians 1:7 "And to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels." This verse anticipates the second coming of our Lord. His arrival will put things right. Afflicted Christians can find relief in knowing that Jesus will judge those who trouble them. The word translated "relief" in this verse is anesin, meaning "loosening" or "rest." Instead of being agitated or worried, Christians can relax, because Jesus is coming again, and when He comes, He will be accompanied by His mighty angels. James urged his persecuted readers to be patient until the coming of the Lord (James 5:7). Paul included himself, Silas, and Timothy among those who would find relief from all their troubles when Jesus returns. Trials assault all Christians, whether or not they are God's appointed leaders. Likewise, divine retribution comes to all persecutors regardless of their rank and station in life. This fact is illustrated in the story Jesus told in Luke 16:19–31 about a rich man and the beggar named Lazarus. The rich man, who lived lavishly without regard for God or Lazarus, died and went to Hades, whereas Lazarus died and went to paradise, where he rested. When the rich man complained about his suffering in Hades, Abraham reminded him that he had received good things in his life, whereas Lazarus had received bad things. He added, "But now he [Lazarus] is comforted here, and you are in anguish" (v. 25). When Jesus returns with His angels, He will inflict flaming fire on those who do not know God and on those who heard the gospel but rejected it. Their punishment will include eternal ruin and separation from God. When Jesus returns, those who have believed in Him will share in Jesus' glory and will marvel at Him. This look into the future was meant to help the Thessalonians continue to be steadfast under persecution and trouble. Paul prays that God would enable his readers to live successfully and worthy of their calling. Heavenly Father, thank You for these reassuring words of comfort from Paul, knowing that the ungodly, who oppress Your children unjustly, will one day be punished, and that a day of rest and rewards is planned for all who live godly in Christ Jesus, and suffer persecution for righteousness sake. I pray that I may exhibit faith and patient endurance in the difficulties that I face, for Your greater glory - and when I am reviled by evil men, I pray that I may demonstrate the same God-given grace the Lord Jesus Christ showed, when He was despised and rejected by men. Thank You that You are a righteous God, and I pray that I am able to rejoice in all my suffering, and to learn the lessons of patience and faith that You desire to teach me. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN. You.Are.Loved!