Fragments: Affection in Christ

 
How exceedingly beautiful is the unfolding of affection in Christ in the beginning of Philippians! Though the Apostle, in writing to the Corinthians, could give God thanks for them, is it quite different from Philippians. He thanks God "always," and "for all the grace showed to them" (1 Cor. 1:44I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; (1 Corinthians 1:4)) and this is most lovely and instructive; but his heart cannot say "at every remembrance," nor can he say "with joy" (Phil. 1:3, 43I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, (Philippians 1:3‑4)). Oh! why are not Christians always so walking, that their affections and communion should be fresh and unhindered?