Philippians 4

Thanks for sharing your observations and insights on this chapter this month.
Philippians 4 is practical and positive. It’s the end of one of Paul’s letters to some dear friends. (The best stuff is always at the end of the letter, right?) By taking a smaller section, just 23 verses, we gave ourselves time to dig a little deeper than if we glanced at the chapter as it zipped by – “Oh-look!”

Philippians 4 (ESV)

1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. 2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Announcing: June Interactive Posts

June is well-underway, I know, but we’ve enjoyed sharing our thoughts like this before (Philippians, Proverbs, Peter’s walk through holy week) so I’d like to invite you to join me again.

In manufacturing, and engineering, perhaps in your world too, the term “drill down” means you’re looking for something. Perhaps a root cause to a problem, perhaps the cause behind all the effects you’re dealing with, good or bad. In agriculture it’s common knowledge that cows have four stomachs and they chew the cud to process the food more completely. Me? I’d rather meditate.

Would you like to join me in drilling down, chewing on, thinking about Philippians 4 the rest of June?

I’ll post Philippians 4 as the content in the next post and you can make comments and observations, short or long, heavy or light, as often as you like. I have a long road trip ahead of me this month so in part, I’m deciding ahead of time where to point focus some drive-time thinking while the fence posts, power poles and mile-markers breeze by.

Join me ? I look forward to sharing our insights and observations together!