10-29-07 Philippians 1:7

Philippians 1:7 (NAS)
For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me.
Philippians 1:7 (NLT)
It is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a very special place in my heart. We have shared together the blessings of God, both when I was in prison and when I was out, defending the truth and telling others the Good News.

It is always right for you to think about and to try to understand others, especially your brothers and sisters in the Lord. You should cherish them and strive to be in harmony. This helps you to become wholly conformed to the will of God. Thinking of others helps to keep you innocent, faultless, and guiltless. Hold the family of God in your heart, as companions and friends, for you have been joined to them through the blood of Yeshua, your Messiah.

You should always be ready to give a defense, making a full account for what you believe. You should be able to tell others the good news of the salvation that Jesus Christ's death and resurrection accomplished for man. When you speak of your firm and established faith, do not fear, even when others try to forbid and prohibit your speech. The Lord has sent you as His messenger to proclaim this good news.

Your brothers and sisters will stand with you, for they are partners and sharers in the gospel. Holding your faith in common, you have fellowship together. The Lord God has given you His grace and through His mercy, you are strengthened and increased in your faith. It is through God's grace that you will thrive and be well. You have received His favor and good will