God's Calling, Sanctification, and Encouragement to Stand Firm
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
13We then ought always to give thanks to God concerning you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits for salvation in holiness of the Spirit and in faith of the truth.14To this end he called you through our gospel so that you might obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.15So then, brothers, stand firm and hold fast the traditions that you were taught, whether by word or by our letter.16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal encouragement and good hope through grace,17comfort your hearts and strengthen you in every good work and word.