Philippians 1:3-6

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” Philippians 1:3-6

Friends are great, but true Christian fellowship is deeper than friendship. It’s deeper than blood. When Paul started a small church in the City of Philippi, it was hardly under the right circumstances. They were an odd group. One girl had previously been possessed by demons and cursed Paul for three days straight until he delivered her. The other was a Roman soldier who was ready to commit suicide before Paul stopped him. Rounding out the trio was a local saleswoman named Lydia who opened up her home.

The beginning was rough. There wasn’t exactly a welcome wagon, but such good things are ever easy. The love that spurred from these church planters overwhelmed Paul in his time of need. As he sat there, chained to a Roman solider, he expressed his joy in just thinking about them. Have you longed for such friends that when you think about their love, you can’t help but smile? This was the true fellowship Paul desired. He wasn’t ever sure he would see them again, but it was their kindness and goodness that he remembered.

He was so thankful to have them, which lead him to pray for them all the time. Do you have people in your life that you can pray for today? Are you thankful for them and all that they do? Paul wanted to bless them knowing that God would finish the good work He started in Philippi. That’s what kept Paul going - knowing that God is always good to finish something He starts in us! Be thankful that no matter what pit you find yourself in, or what crisis comes your way, God and His people are always praying for Jesus to finish your faith!