Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever.
Summary: Our God and Father is worthy of all honor and glory — always.
It has been a long journey through Paul’s letter to the Philippians! Each meditation has explored only one facet of the passage or word it focuses on. God’s Word is amazing in its depth and breadth of meaning (Isaiah 55:9). I am reminded of John’s words at the end of his Gospel:
Continue reading “Philippians 4:20a – Glory and Honor”
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.
Summary: Paul’s comment about the Philippians sharing in his troubles provides an interesting insight into how God uses trials and comfort to “temper” our steel.
God’s Word is eternal, as is God. At the same time, it is very personal. It is personal because it touches each of us where we are in our journey.
Perhaps some people have gone through life without much trouble or suffering, but for those of us who have suffered in this life, we know the value of someone who cares.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:14 – Hot and Cold”
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV)
Summary: This passage provides a wonderful opportunity to explore how God’s Word is like a measuring line for our soul.
As you may have noticed, our passage today is from the New King James Version of the Bible. The reason is that the NIV translation chose to translate the passage this way:
Continue reading “Philippians 4:13 – Now or Forever?”
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.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:12b – All That Matters”
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
Summary: Paul’s words in this passage provide a prompt for meditating on what it means to need the Word of God.
As we make our way through the last verses of Paul’s letter, it is a good time to consider why we are doing this.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:12a – The Breath of Life”
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!”?
Continue reading “Philippians 4:11 – Contentedness”
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.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:9a – No Ordinary Man”
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.”
Continue reading “Philippians 4:8e – Things That Are Lovely”
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.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:8 – What Matters”
… 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.
Continue reading “Philippians 4:6b – A Place of Prayer”