1 Thessalonians 2:14-20

14For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, since you have also suffered the same things from people of your own country, just as they did from the Jews

15who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and persecuted us. They displease God and are hostile to everyone,

16by keeping us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. As a result, they are constantly filling up their sins to the limit, and wrath has overtaken them at last.

17But as for us, brothers and sisters, after we were forced to leave you for a short time (in person, not in heart), we greatly desired and made every effort to return and see you face to face.

18So we wanted to come to you — even I, Paul, time and again — but Satan hindered us.

19For who is our hope or joy or crown of boasting in the presence of our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?

20Indeed you are our glory and joy!