Philippians 4:1 (KJV) Dearly Beloved

Philippians 4:1 (KJV)
Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

Paul wrote this to a church body he loved but was not able to see at that time. Their care for him and his for them is obvious. But Paul was in prison. He asked them to pray for his release and expressed confidence that it would happen, but he was not, at this moment, at liberty to see them. No wonder he said, “…my dearly beloved and longed for.”

I think I understand this sentiment more now than ever before. In the regular routine of church services, the mutual benefit of fellowship among the brethren is expected, even taken for granted. We rarely speak one on one more than a moment or two, but we see one another so frequently that we do an almost instantaneous “wellness check” on one another. We can see how each fare because we can compare their state to that which we have witnessed again and again. 

It’s been at least a month since I have seen anyone from our church. I have seen some comments they have made. I have received texts from a number of them. Some of us have spoken on the phone. But that is the extent of it. In many cases, we haven’t even had that. 

I long for the fellowship with the saints. I have no way of knowing when that will happen again and wonder if, in the case of some, I will ever see them again. 

They truly are, “dearly beloved and longed for.”

To my readers:
First of all, thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. Secondly, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.

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Philippians 4:1 (KJV) Dearly Beloved

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