Abstract: The importance of thanksgiving whether in good situation or bad. Being a Christian does not fit well into the world, particularly in Paul's time, especially because of persecution. Rejoicing that they had accepted Paul's teaching as the actual word of God. The Gospel is not of human construct but is specifically of God. Teaching must only be the word of God to change lives. Persecution is what happens if you do God's work in God's way. God has never promised us an easy journey. We need to pray and support our fellow Christians around the world who are being persecuted. And pray for us for when persecution comes closer to us in time. We are in a privileged position by God's side as stated in his word. We are in God's hands and any affliction will be brief. Possibly not a happy thought but given how the world is, it is one we must face.