“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.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1:7-8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

This passage of scripture gives us a window into Paul's heart and allows us to see first hand the deep love that he holds for the Philippian believers. Their consistent faith and constant stance in the truth gave him great satisfaction. Even while he was in a Roman prison Paul was overwhelmed with emotion for these fellow saints. They were his family. Family of God! We, too, have those who carry a special place in our hearts because of their love for Christ and their service in the body of Christ. When you walk through the deepest, darkest valley in your service to Jesus, it is there where you find who your dearest friends and family are. Those who are faithful and firm are etched in your heart forever. God gives us others in life who help us make this journey through the strange land called life. Those who know Jesus realize that we are here only for a short while. Our focus must be on our purpose here and the promise of eternity. Thank God for the family of God!!!