We are bound to always give thanks to God for you, brothers,{The word for "brothers" here and where context allows may also be correctly translated "brothers and sisters" or "siblings."} even as it is appropriate, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of each and every one of you towards one another abounds;
Paul acknowledged himself obliged to give thanks because his prayer at 1 Thessalonians 3:13 had been answered by the Thessalonians doing the things which he prayed they might do. Thus he very forcefully recognized the good in his converts that he may be listened to with patience when he begins to correct their faults (McGarvey and Pendleton 30).