Philippians 4:1-7

Philippians 4:1-7 … Chapter 4 will wrap up this wonderful brief letter of encouragement to a favored church. The first seven verses naturally divide into two segments of thought: the first expresses fondness and longing for this remarkably faithful and supportive little church in Philippi with an encouragement to “stand firm” – which implies confidence, steadfastness and reliability. Also, almost as a footnote, there’s an encouragement regarding two women of the congregation who have been co-workers with Paul and others in the past, but for some reason are out of harmony with each other. And so, Paul urges harmony in the Lord where they’ll find commonality.

The second segment of this short paragraph is one of the most uplifting in all of Paul’s prolific writings for God – the whole passage is profitable to memorize – you’ll find yourself repeating it frequently. There are many admonitions here worth your meditation beginning with rejoicing always in the Lord and with replacing anxiety and worry with confidence in God’s grace through answered prayer which includes thanksgiving and petitions asking God to meet our needs. The Scripture wants us to know that by having such confidence in the Lord our inner being will be filled with the peace of God. And, this is important to know (v.7b): the peace of God … will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. That’s an enormous comfort! Your mind is always working; and sometimes, working unproductively or unwholesomely. What a comfort to know that it can be guarded against unwelcome and unhelpful thought-life through your confidence in Him.