Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy. 2 Timothy 1:4.
“When I recall the tears you shed when we parted, I long by night and day to see you again. That would fill me with joy.” 2 Timothy 1:4, 5, Moffatt.
We sustain a loss when we neglect the privilege of associating together to strengthen and encourage one another in the service of God. The truths of His Word lose their vividness and importance in our minds. Our hearts cease to be enlightened and aroused by their sanctifying influence, and we decline in spirituality. In our association as Christians we lose much by lack of sympathy with one another. He who shuts himself up to himself is not filling the position that God designed he should....
If Christians would associate together, speaking to each other of the love of God, and of the precious truths of redemption, their own hearts would be refreshed, and they would refresh one another.—Steps to Christ, 101.
We are all children of one Father, dependent upon one another for happiness. The claims of God and of humanity are upon us. It is the proper cultivation of the social elements of our nature that brings us into sympathy with our brethren, and affords us happiness in our efforts to bless others.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 541.
From Radiant Religion - Page 158
Radiant Religion