Exposition:

Paul, Silas and Timothy were very desirous to visit the Church at Thessalonica, but they were unable to do so for the singular reason announced in the text, namely “Satan hindered us.” It was not from lack of will, for they had a very great attachment for the Thessalonian brethren, and they longed to see them in person again. They said of the Thessalonians, “We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers: remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.”

Their will was overruled concerning visiting the Church together, but being anxious for its welfare, they sent Timothy alone to minister for a time in its midst. I am convinced that distractions and discouragement are some of Satan’s most effective tools. He finds ways to help us make excuses about why we can’t do this or that. He gets us involved in wasting our time and resources in things that lead us away from improving our lives and developing our talents. He blurs our focus by diverting our attention. This can happen to the very best of you.