Tag: Paul

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Philippians 4:12b – All That Matters

A golden retriever, enjoying the sun and wearing headphones, enjoying music. Content! (AI) -- Pixabay

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. 

Summary: Paul’s claim to be content in every situation is worth thinking about. How does that work? As we explore Paul’s claim, we find it leads us to Jesus.   

Would you like to be content in any and every situation? 

When I think of “every situation,” my mind wanders to all kinds of scenarios. I have memories of being attacked by a dog, falling down a cliff, and being called before a judge as a witness in a criminal proceeding. I’ve been sick, lost loved ones, had my heart broken, and seen my children suffer things beyond my control. I’ve taken care of my wife when she was ill and watched as she worried over me when I was sick. 

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Philippians 4:11 – Contentedness

Paul the apostle adrift at sea, calmly reading a book. (Grok)

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 

Summary: Being contented is a state of mind. In these final passages from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he helps us see what is needed to find the same contentedness in Christ that he enjoys. 

What does it mean to be “in need?” 

In other words, what would it take for Paul to finally say, “This situation is not acceptable!”?

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Philippians 4:9a – No Ordinary Man

AI. Picture of Paul in prison, praying. (Pixabay)

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. 

Summary: In this passage, Paul lays down a challenge: What or whom do you see in him? 

If you heard an ordinary person say these words, you would have every right to question whether or not they were serious. You might rightly wonder if they were being egotistical. But Paul is no ordinary man. 

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Philippians 4:8e – Things That Are Lovely

AI picture of a lamb in a field of flowers (Pixabay)

Whatever is lovely …think about such things. 

Summary: Paul’s use of words continues to challenge translators and readers alike.   

What do you think of when you hear the word “lovely?” 

If you look up this verse in all the available English translations, you will find that most of them use the word “lovely” just like the NIV does. A few use other words like “right,” or “commendable.”

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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 4:6b – 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 4:3b – 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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Philippians 4:1b – In the Lord (Part 1)

Man, in prayer, with the light of Christ glowing within (Grok)

… stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

Summary: This passage provides multiple topics to ponder. In this meditation, we look at what it means to be “in the Lord.”   

As we meditate on this passage, there are three separate sections we can focus on. The first is what it means to “stand firm.” The second is the phrase, “in the Lord,” and the third is “in this way.” All three carry special meaning and are worthy of our time. 

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Philippians 4:1a – Crowns

Picture of a wreath on a small stand (Grok)

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown…

Summary: Paul’s use of the word “crown” suggests royalty, victory, and glory. As we examine Paul’s use of the word, we discover more about his relationship with Jesus and the Philippians.   

We have already discussed Paul’s relationship with the church at Philippi. It is clear from his opening chapter that he holds a deep affection for the people there. The word that jumps out in this passage is “crown.” 

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