Straw!
Paul was not saying that the trib would be comforting. Paul had already told them that because they kept his appointed times, they need not fear Yeshua coming as a thief to them.
1Thessalonians 5
[1] But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
[2] For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
[3] For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
[4] But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
[5] Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
[6] Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
The Thessalonians, being fully Torah compliant, would be taken to the place in the desert during the trib. Only those that were not so aware would be caught unprepared.
My interpretation is all Christians indwelt by the HS will be taken into the ark (Jesus Christ) for safety (the rapture) The dwelling in the desert is for the Jews that will be converted to saving faith in Yeshua during the tribulation.
I realize YMMV and there are multiple interpretations, not any one of us has all the answers. End times prophecy and its interpretation requires humbleness on the part of the interpreter as there is a large chance any one of us has at least some of it wrong. I offer my interpretation in that spirit. Have a great day.