II Thessalonians 1

Paul is thankful that the church is doing well...
their faith is "greatly enlarged"
their love for one another "grows even greater"
they have perseverance and faith as they endure persecutions.
and they are "considered worthy of the kingdom of God"

Paul reminds them that God will:
- repay those who have afflicted them with affliction.
- give relief to them all when Jesus returns.
-"... dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus".

The penalty is "eternal destruction away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day and to be marveled at among all who have believed..." 

Another of Paul's prayers is recorded in verses 11-12

"To this end we pray for you always

that our God may count you worthy of your calling, 

and fulfill every desire for goodness

and the work of faith with power;

in order that the name of our Lord Jesus

may be glorified in you,

and you in Him, 

according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. "

Those who are considered worthy of the Kingdom of God are those who are growing in faith and love, persevering in afflictions, desiring goodness and working in faith.  They will "marvel" at the coming of Jesus and He will be glorified in them on that day!

Those who do not know God or refuse to obey His Word, will be repayed with affliction for any that they afflicted; receive retribution for their unbelief and disobedience; and will pay the ultimate price of eternal destruction. 

Such a stark contrast and heart-wrenching truth... 

Oh Father, God of grace and Jesus Christ our Lord, we pray for our brothers and sisters in You, that they may grow in faith and love, that they may persevere in troubles, and that You would bring every desire for goodness to fulfillment.  May they do the work of faith with power, to bring glory to Your Name.  And Father of mercy, we plead for those who are unbelievers, that their eyes might be opened to the Truth of the gospel and that their hearts will be opened to believe.  Grant repentance and salvation to these today Lord.... Thank You for hearing my prayer.  amen.