Tag: Jesus

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Philippians 4:8d – The Choice

A Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man look-alike reads the Bible. (Grok)

… whatever is pure …think about such things. 

Summary: Trying to tell ourselves what NOT to think about is doomed to fail. Paul’s solution is to redirect our thinking towards something without any worldly contamination.   

Paul is clever! 

There is a scene in the 1984 “Ghostbusters” movie where the four Ghostbusters are in the final battle with “Gozer the Gozerian.” After blasting the apparition with their “proton beams,” Gozer disappears. Thinking that they have “won,” the four heroes relax for a moment until the ground starts to shake and the building begins to sway. 

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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 3:21a – Under Control

Picture of a lit candle against a black background (Pixabay)

…the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control,

Summary: Power is desired by those who want control over others. Jesus shows us that real power is revealed when we can control our desire for power over others. 

Consider what Paul is saying in this passage: Jesus Christ has the power to bring everything under his control. 

Wow. 

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Philippians 3:18 – Doing and Saying

Picture of a heart-shaped jewelry box, standing open empty. (Grok)

For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.

Summary: Paul touches on a topic that challenges every thoughtful and well-meaning Christian. Ironically, those who are not thoughtful and well-meaning might not feel challenged at all.   

This verse shifts gears rather rapidly. If the resulting head-bob makes your neck hurt, don’t feel alone. We are all in the same situation. 

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Philippians 3:13c-14 – The Prize

St Paul crosses the finish line in a footrace dragging his chains behind him (Grok)

… and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Summary: Life is not a game, but sometimes thinking in terms of a contest helps us visualize what is at stake in life.   

What kind of prize motivates you? 

Is it a trophy? 

Are you excited by the thought of having your picture and name in the paper? 

Do you work extra hard if the prize is money? 

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