Paul doesn’t mince words–his friends in Philippi are very dear to him. They haven’t deserted him while he is in prison, and they share his faith. Paul isn’t concerned about circumstances, but about people and how they are so filled with God’s love that it overflows.
Philippians 1:8-9 (New Living Translation)
So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.
Kathleen S Evenhouse 