June 30, 2020 – Philippians 4:4-7

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7.

Who is the author of these words  telling me to rejoice?  How can I not be anxious when things are going so wrong. The author must have a glorious  life with no troubles.   Bills paid, no appliances break down, food appears ready to eat, and I live in a good neighborhood.  Right?  

Wrong!  Apostle Paul, who traveled and experienced physical dangers after he was chosen to be an apostle by Jesus. He received beatings, he was shipwrecked, and faced danger at every hand. He often went through sleepless night, and was hungry.  (2 Corinthians 11:24-27.)

What made Paul turn from persecuting Christians to endure all these things?  He met Jesus.  No hardship turned him away from Jesus Christ. Paul set an example for us, to keep our eyes on Jesus and trust Him only.

Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.  Philippians 3:8a.

Father God, Fill me with your love so I may love others in the name of Your Son Jesus. Let my thoughts and my words praise You…In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9.