Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonian church was written to encourage them to persist in righteous living as they kept the return of Jesus at the forefront of their minds. Paul highlighted the need for living in a way that pleases God just before discussing Jesus’ return. By having a right relationship with God, believers who are alive at the return of Jesus will rise to Him rather than suffer God’s anger and the consequences of the Day of the Lord. Paul’s instructions are equally meaningful to us today as we wait with anticipation for the return of our King.