Philippians 1:3–5 ‘I thank my God every time I remember you.’ (v3)
The narrative of Acts 16:12–40 gives us the background to this epistle. The church in Philippi is planted in part because Paul is thrown into prison! The jailer and his household come to faith and join with Lydia and her household and others who would come to faith.
His words in verse 3 reflect a very special bond that exists between believers and especially when we have been involved in them coming to faith or their growth as believers.
Sadly, too often we might honestly say: ‘My stomach churns every time I remember you’, or ‘My blood boils when I think of you’! Relationships in the local church cause pain and if that is true for us we are wise to settle the matter as soon as we can, maybe with the help of other believers who can aid us to assess things wisely and find appropriate remedies.
But the verse outlines the preciousness of all that unites us when a fellow brother or sister comes to mind. They are fellow heirs with us of all that God promises those who trust Him, and we are able to genuinely thank God for them.
A Prayer To Make:
‘Lord, thank You for placing me in the family of fellow Christians in whom I can delight. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
Bring to mind fellow believers and thank God for them and the impact they have had on you. Text them or phone them to share your appreciation.
Scripture To Consider:
Ps. 139:13–18; Prov. 19:4–7; John 15:9–17; Acts 16:12–40; Jas 3:13–18
