As a result, you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. (2 Thess. 1:5)
Expanded Passage: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-7
People who set out to hike the Appalachian Trail are known as thru-hikers. Their goal is to hike nearly 2,200 miles through fourteen states—from Georgia to Maine. They carry everything they need in a pack on their backs. Every day, they hike up and down mountains. They sleep outside in their tents. During their hike, they may encounter challenges ranging from blisters and hunger to thunderstorms, fatigue, loneliness, and injury. Many give up and go home. Others are forced to quit, even though they don’t want to. But there are some every year who complete the entire trail. When this happens, they become known as a 2,000-Miler. In nearly a hundred years, fewer than 30,000 people have completed this journey.
Paul knew the believers in the church of the Thessalonians were suffering. He offered them hope that their suffering was not in vain. He could not take away their pain. Rather, he reminded them that God saw what they were going through, and one day, he would enact justice.
A hiker is willing to endure pain and discomfort in order to earn the title of 2,000-Miler. But this is only an earthly achievement. How much more should we hold on in the midst of suffering? Because one day, it will lead to the greatest honor of all—to be counted worthy of the kingdom of God.
Set your sights on the ultimate honor.
Kristina Carter uses her passion for writing on the Global Partners Communication Team to equip people in the mission to share the gospel with the unreached.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
