Meditation

Hi there,

Yesterday, when we left Paul, he was telling his friends to stand firm and remember what he had told them about Christian love for one another and joy in Christ. Yet we are all human, and even Christians will find themselves in disagreement or even anger toward one another at times.

In this section of his letter, Paul starts off with a very personal plea for two dear sisters in the Lord, Euodia and Syntyche, to stop arguing and to have unity. (Note that he wants them to “be of the same mind in the Lord,” not necessarily to always agree with each other.)

It’s a hard thing for Paul to address, but let’s be grateful that he brought it up, because it leads us right into one of the most quotable and uplifting sections of Philippians.

There’s so much to unpack in verses 4 through 7 that it’s hard to know where to begin. As you copy these last four verses today, take a moment to pause and reflect on each one and how you might remember these exhortations in the days to come.

Verse 4: This isn’t a suggestion that you should rejoice in the Lord … it’s an order! When? Always.

Verse 5: Let others see your gentleness. Some translations say moderation, reasonableness, or forbearance. The Lord is present now and Jesus is coming soon.

Verse 6: What should we do when we feel anxious (self-pity or counterproductive worry)? Also, how should we pray?

Verse 7: This is a beautiful promise. We are not guaranteed that God will give us everything we ask for, but what will he give us? And what will the peace of God do for us?

Today’s text is Philippians 4:2-7

² I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. ³ Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Final Exhortations

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵ Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

⁶ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Encouragement

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Isaiah 26:3

Rebekah

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