Paul’s great affection for the Philippian church is evident in the early verses of this letter where he identifies Philippians believers as saints– those who have been set apart by God for his purposes. Because that designation brings with it the responsibility to live holy lives, we should live out of our identity and spiritual calling. Paul also calls us to maintain joy despite our circumstances because our joy is based upon a deep seated trust in God that he will work in and through our circumstances to bring about his purposes in our lives.