1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

1Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone;

2and sent Timothy, our brother and God’s minister in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith;

3that no man be moved by these afflictions; for yourselves know that hereunto we are appointed.

4For verily, when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we are to suffer affliction; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

5For this cause I also, when I could no longer forbear, sent that I might know your faith, lest by any means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor should be in vain.