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prison joy

Philippians 1:3&4
"3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,"

This remarkable letter was written by Paul while he was incarcerated in Rome. Without a doubt Paul is missing his apostolic friends. He used the words “joy” and “rejoice” thirteen times in this short letter. If you didn't know his circumstances, we would have no clue that he is in prison. He has every right to be proud of what was accomplished in Philippi. 

Paul went against social conventions by talking to the women there. Turns out Lydia was a GREAT early leader in the church. Her location was fortunate, in this thriving part of the Roman Empire. The Holy Ghost opened her heart to Jesus being the Son of God. The two were in the right place at the right time. The church at Philippi had grown into a thriving and successful congregation, with bishops and deacons. All thanks to the work of the Holy Ghost. 
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