I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Today I focus on Philippians 4:1-9 where Paul encourages us to "not be anxious about anything," to experience the "peace of God...which surpasses all understanding, [as this] will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: V3: God maintains a Book of Life, where those names are recorded since the creation of the world to indicate those are saved. He is sovereign over who is saved. See also Exodus 32:32-33, and Revelation 13:8, 17:8, 20:11-15. We also know from elsewhere in scripture how the Holy Spirit seals and guarantees our salvation - see also Ephesians 1:13–14 and 2 Corinthians 1:21–22. V7: God gives us a peace that surpasses understanding that will guard our hearts and minds - yet another cause to rejoice!
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv1-3: Conflict and disagreement exists in the church - this is inevitable - Paul encourages us in these circumstances to help overcome disagreement and conflict as church unity is very important. V4: In light of how believers are in the Book of Life, this is certainly cause to rejoice! V5: We are called to be reasonable, so much so, that others note how reasonable we are - we don't know the hour or the day when Jesus will return or we will be called home so we should not fall away nor should we not be ready. V6: We are also called to not be anxious and to pray. Vv8-9: Paul's final call in the text today is for us to think about and pursue what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, and excellent (in God's eyes) - God will renew our minds to think and act like Him if we hunger and thirst for righteousness. Paul shares how we are model him as an example (not out of vanity but from love for their sake).
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid as best as possible conflict and disagreement in the church, particularly with regards to inconsequential matters. Claim the promise that the peace of God will guard your heart and mind. Follow Paul's example and think of and pursue righteousness.
My Prayer: Father God, thank You for my salvation and for giving me a peace that surpasses understanding. I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
