In the following passage, Paul highlights the importance of imitation. He explains that the Thessalonians had faced affliction during their conversion, just as he had, as well as other saints who had converted elsewhere, and even the Lord Himself had faced affliction. Therefore, they were imitators of those who had chosen to serve God despite severe opposition. This was a way of letting them know that they were not alone in their suffering!

2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,

3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 

4 knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. 

5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.

6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 

7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 

8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything. 

9 For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 

10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

~ 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

Holy God in heaven, You alone, are wise and all powerful. Thank You for Your mercy, grace, and peace through Christ Jesus. Lord, I desire to be strong in my faith, just like the Apostle Paul was. He, the new converts of Thessalonica, and even Jesus faced opposition for standing firm in Your truth. Sometimes I forget this during my own trials and have fallen into a victim’s mentality, wondering why I have had to face certain hardships. I repent, resolving to look unto You for strength in doing the right thing within every circumstance! Help me to note such faithful examples around me today, imitate them, and enable me to be a better example of service to You for others to follow. It is in Christ’s holy name that I pray, amen.