Bible reflections:

We give thanks to God always for you all, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)

For we know, brethren beloved by God, that he has chosen you . . . (1 Thessalonians 1:4)

. . . but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere . . . (1 Thessalonians 1:8)