Growing in Tribulations Part 1 - Pastor Verne preaching from 2 Thessalonians 1:3 as we look at, “Growing in Tribulations” (Part 1). The Christian life is a dependent life. We are firstly dependent upon God. God is the dispenser of grace and peace (1:2). Our connection with God then connects us with God’s people (1:1). When we undergo persecutions and tribulations, God is our Helper and He also uses His people to help us. We’ll learn that our spiritual progress in tribulations is highlighted with thanksgiving, faith, and love. Thanksgiving is my gratitude and gratefulness to God. This thankfulness is directed to God first, then for fellow believers. I am also to be progressing in the faith. Faith in God and all that He has revealed is being expressed. A growing faith happens as I learn and apply the Bible in my life. This is how Christlikeness is developed in the Christian. The third quality is an abounding love. This love is overflowing and observable. Persecutions and tribulations are inevitable for all Christians. How are we cared for when facing such challenges and difficulties? By the grace and peace provided to us from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. And then, by the encouragement and support from God’s people. And as we are spiritually progressing in thanksgiving, faith, and love, there will be the mutual expressions of genuine Christianity freely shared with one another for the glory of God!