I will say it again: Rejoice!
(Please read Philippians 4: 1-7)
Philippians 4 starts by reminding everyone to stand firm in the Lord. It’s important to start with this message as we dive deeper into Philippians. We then go on to read Paul pleading to Euodia and Syntyche to unite in the word of Christ. Again, we can go back to the first line, and realize how important it is for Euodia and Syntyche to stand firm in the Lord. The only union, is in Christ.
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
Let’s sit with that for a moment.
To rejoice is to have no fear or anxiety. As we rejoice in the Lord, we can be our soft, gentle selves. The Lord is with us, he is always near, and with that, we can rejoice!
Further on in the reading, it is advised that we think about all of the praiseworthy things, including things that are true, pure, lovely, admirable, and noble. These are the things we can think about and God’s peace will be with us.
Application:
- When we trust in God, his peace is with us. God’s peace diminishes unwanted fears and anxiety, which frees up space in our minds to think about all that is true, pure, lovely, admirable, and noble.
- When you come across something that you fear, remember to stand firm in the Lord.
- When your mind brings you unwanted anxiety, remember to stand firm in the Lord.
- When someone questions your unity, remember to stand firm in the Lord.
- As you stand firm, be still, and notice as praiseworthy thoughts flood your mind!
Where else in your life can you live out the teachings of Christ? Look for next week’s Devotion.