Our scripture this morning is Philippians 4:4-8.
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice! Let everyone see your gentleness. The Lord is near! Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.
Paul gives encouragement to the Philippian church, telling them “in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God”. While God knows everything that goes on in His creation, coming to Him with our joys and concerns makes us part of His process. In this way we can be made whole and serve Him as the disciples of today.
Earlier in this letter Paul says “you should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had” (Philippians 2:5), loving one another as He does. This is part of the Greatest Commandment, to love God and your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). We become more like Christ when we follow this guidance.
In James 1:17 we hear that “all good gifts are from God”. Paul lists many of these, telling us that keeping our minds on these things will keep us connected to God. When we strive to be like our savior “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus”.
Loving Lord, You have gifted us richly. Help us to use these resources as tools for Your kingdom, that all the world may know Your love. Amen.
