“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
“To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:1-8
Paul, held in the love of Christ, burned with Christ’s love for His church. He was thankful for them and their partnership in the gospel and fellowship of grace because he held them in his heart. The Lord had changed what he valued, and this new treasure captivated his affections and focus. Because he held the Philippians, whose church was strengthened by a converted jailer at his testimony, close in love and prayer, he could not help but rejoice, and desire God’s best for them. (Acts 16:25-34)
The world has many offerings for our hands and hearts to seize. It might be the profane or prurient, but more likely it is the urgent and material. What we hold in our hearts determines our life motivations and goals. If we cling tightly to material things, we will soon find them illusive. (Matthew 6:19-21)
If we hold the things of God and certain people at a distance, replacing them with the immediate and inane, we will likely never foster fondness for them. If we take time to ponder the ways and character and word of God, we will find Him attractive. Familiarity with such graciousness and purity will breed affection. If we sincerely pray for those with whom we struggle, our attitudes will soften and warm to their worth in God’s eyes. (Matthew 5:43-44)
Have we taken an honest look at what we treasure? If worldly success, or control and ability to have all we want in our time and way, there our ambition will be directed. If the deep treasure of knowing God, there we’ll plant our pursuit.
What and whom are we holding in our hearts? Angst at circumstances? Anger, resentment, or a thirst for revenge against someone who’s betrayed or hurt us? Disappointment at unfulfilled dreams, expectations, or rights we claim? Things and fame and success we do not have, rather than all God by grace has given?
What do we pray for? Comfort, ease, more goods? Whom do we pray for? Only those we love and find appealing? What do these indicate about what we value most?
If our treasure truly is in heaven, then our affections will be Godward and our prayers expressions of humble gratitude and worship.
Lord, help me release anything that doesn’t draw me closer to or make me more like You.
As the rain and snow 