(We’re interspersing reading Philippians with the early chapters of 1 Chronicles, as repeated days on genealogy can be a struggle.)

Paul addresses the believers in Philippi as saints, which means they are holy, a people set apart for God’s glory (v1). How they think and act should show that they are a different people.

Paul writes to these believers with a desire that nothing will rob them of their joy in the Lord. Joy was an important part of Paul’s life including in his praying (v3-6). Paul’s joy in a changing world, came from confidence in the Lord, who does not change. We saw that when as a prisoner in the jail in Philippi he along with Silas sang God’s praise.

Paul’s life was so entwined with the Lord, that he loved deeply, those whom the Lord loved (v7-8). He longed that they would be growing in their love and knowledge, so as not to  be ashamed when Christ returns (v9-10).

Does your life have the joy and love that we see in these verses? Pray that through a deepening relationship with Christ that you would know more joy and love evident in your life. Our Christian lives are never meant to be static but growing and developing in the power of Christ.