This Sunday, we encourage you to take some time to sit down with your Bible (or your Bible app) and read Philippians 4, one of the most inspiring chapters in the entire New Testament. Below is a short Bible study to pair with your reading, and we pray that it helps you grow in your faith.
Philippians 4 offers a rich message to believers that is filled with practical instructions for living in God’s peace and strength. Paul writes this final chapter of his letter to the Philippians while in prison, yet his words overflow with joy, contentment, and hope. He begins the chapter with an appeal for unity, urging two women who had worked alongside him in the spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to “agree in the Lord.”
Then, in verses 4-7, Paul gives some of the most quoted and cherished commands in all of Scripture: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” He goes on to write, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Paul then encourages the church in Philippi — and all of us — to “not be anxious about anything.”
So, what does Paul tell us to do instead of being anxious? It’s hard to find an alternative to anxiety and worry in this world, but Paul spells it out clearly for us: “In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Paul says that when we do this, “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.”
What might following this instruction look like in your life? Are you feeling worried or overwhelmed by current events? Cast all that anxiety aside by bringing everything to God and prayer. Be specific with the Lord in your prayers to him; you can submit all requests to your Heavenly Father.
Next, in verses 8-9, Paul lays out a blueprint for what the mind shaped by Christ looks like. He tells us to think of “whatever is true, noble, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy.” This can be a real challenge in a world that does not value what God values. However, when we focus and reflect on God’s goodness, we can see beyond the brokenness of the world and focus on his perfection.
One of the most powerful parts of Philippians 4 comes next, when Paul speaks about his supernatural contentment: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” He goes on to say, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Do you need strength? Turn to Christ. Despite being imprisoned and having experienced times of both plenty and want, he relied on Christ to endure and thrive, no matter what life brought, and he became a pillar of the early church as a result.
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