Author: Jeff Englund

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Philippians 4:8 – What Matters

Conceptual drawing of the Garden of Eden (Grok)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Summary: Paul’s instructions on what to think about reflect his understanding of what led Adam and Eve to sin in the Garden of Eden.   

There is a lot to ponder in this passage, but before we get into the details, it is useful to stand back and admire the whole verse. 

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Philippians 4:7b – Safe Haven

A small chick is held in a protective hand (Pixabay)

… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Summary: As we look at the second half of Paul’s verse about peace, we discover the dangers that confront us and how incredibly important the peace of God is.   

When Paul says “your hearts and your minds,” he is talking to you and me. Anyone who is a follower of Jesus Christ is entitled to this peace that Paul talks about. 

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Philippians 4:7a – The Peace of God

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding…

Picture of a cartoon-like police car. (Pixabay)

Summary: In this passage, Paul begins a promise with the words, “peace of God.” To understand the promise, we first have to understand the words.   

When Paul speaks of the “peace of God,” he is not just spouting a platitude. He is talking about something very real and extremely important to Christian living. 

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Philippians 4:6b – A Place of Prayer

… but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Summary: In this passage, it sounds like Paul is saying the same thing twice when he writes, “by prayer and petition.” As it turns out, there is a world of difference between the English version and the Greek.   

Have you ever wondered how to pray? 

In this passage, Paul gives us a short primer on the topic. In one sense, it is really quite simple; no matter where you are or what you are doing, pray. When you pray, be thankful. Always present your requests to God. 

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Philippians 4:5a – More Than Human

Let your gentleness be evident to all.

Summary: In this passage, Paul makes a simple suggestion. But is it just a suggestion?   

As Paul brings his letter to the Philippians to a close, he begins Chapter Four with a plea to “stand firm in the Lord.” He then adds a note to stand firm “in this way.” “This way” turned out to mean adhering to the true Gospel, putting our confidence in Jesus, valuing Christ above all else, pressing on, striving for maturity in faith, focusing on the godly, and remembering we are citizens of heaven.*

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Philippians 4:4 – Remain Calm and Carry On

Jesus walking, hold the hands of two small children being followed by sheep. (Grok)

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 

Summary: Paul’s admonition to “rejoice” is both a delight and a puzzle. When we take a closer look at what he says, we find that what he asks us to do is really quite simple.   

When Paul says “Jump!,” I jump! When he says, “Rejoice!” I say, “Huh?” 

What does he mean? 

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Philippians 4:3b – Body Parts

A picture of the "Book of Life" in the hands of a heavenly figure. (Grok)

… 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.

Summary: The struggle between Euodia and Syntyche is not unique. When we consider other disagreements the early church experienced, certain patterns emerge. 

It might be helpful to know what Euodia and Syntyche had disagreed about. Of course, since Paul tells us that they were both “in the book of life,” it doesn’t matter to them now. They are enjoying the blessings of heaven and the company of the Lord Jesus. Earthly disagreements carry little weight in heaven. 

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