"Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved."

Paul calls the Philippians his beloved a few times, in verse 1, we begin to see why he counts them as close brothers and sisters.

Paul uses chapter 4 to give some commands to the Philippian church.  Rejoice, live in harmony, think of things that are righteous...  Before he commands, he commends.

Paul, with this sentence, is drawing the attention of the Philippians back to the previous thoughts in chapter 3.  He then tells them, in effect, keep standing firm.  Don't stop.

Often, we forget to continue.  We like to start things, but not worry about finishing them.  We like the thrill of the race, not the thrill of the finish line.  The Philippian church seems to be standing well on her feet.  Paul is telling them to keep it up.  This is why I love you, because you stand, without giving up hope.

Why do we often give up hope?
What would convince you to finish the race?