Practice These Things

Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 3:17-21

SHOW NOTES:

Paul expresses affection for his readers several times in chapter three of Philippians.

Dear brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

– Philippians 3:17

His invitation is not prideful but reflects his personal journey with the Lord over the past few decades. Paul has faced many trials, endured much suffering, and confronted significant challenges in life. He is a bit further along the path and encourages them to follow his example and those of Timothy and Epaphroditus.

In verses 18 and 19, Paul expresses strong emotion as he warns against those who “walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.” Do not follow these people! Their minds are set on earthly things, but we are citizens of heaven, and we are eager for Him to return as our Savior.

He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.

– Philippians 3:21

Be encouraged and hold on to these precious words from the Apostle Paul.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 4:1-4

SHOW NOTES:

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul reminds them that they are his close friends. He regards them as brothers and sisters. We read his passionate appeal to them: Live in unity and be steadfast in your walk with God!

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

– Philippians 4:1

After this strong expression of care and affection, Paul highlights a conflict between two women. While he does not specify the issue, Paul names both women. He also requests a respected leader in Philippi to assist these women in restoring fellowship and unity.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

– Philippians 4:4

Paul was not urging Christians to be unrealistic or to never feel sad—even Jesus wept (John 11:35) at the tomb of Lazarus. However, he encouraged us to focus on our blessings in Christ and to be grateful for them, no matter how sad we may feel at any given moment.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 4:4-7

SHOW NOTES:

In chapter one, Paul tells us that he is writing from prison, most likely in Rome, where the wicked Emperor Nero reigned. While it may seem easy to rejoice from a place of safety and comfort, Paul can rejoice because of his deep relationship with the Lord.

There will be attacks from the world and personality clashes among believers; nonetheless, Christians are called to maintain a spirit of joy in the Lord. We are not immune to sorrow, discouragement, or pain, nor should we be insensitive to the troubles of others. However, we should view God’s will as our highest joy and thus be able to experience inner peace and joy in every circumstance.

Keep your gentle nature so that all people will know what it looks like to walk in His footsteps. The Lord is ever present with us.

– Philippians 4:5 (The Voice)

Paul argues that believers cannot find true happiness without striving to bless others. To encourage his readers, Paul reminds them that “the Lord is near.” This establishes a crucial link between having a longsuffering, gentle spirit and the reality of the Lord’s presence with us.

We are called to prayer instead of sitting in our anxious thoughts and worrying. The phrase “the peace of God” does not appear elsewhere in the New Testament. This peace comes from God. It envelops us when we pray, allowing us to experience the tranquility of God’s presence. We cannot fully comprehend this peace or its release from the pressure and strain of our circumstances.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

– Philippians 4:7

We hope you’ll take some time this week to listen to the song we selected for worship.

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Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13

SHOW NOTES:

What brings you joy? Are there specific moments when your heart feels joyful?

Paul uses “rejoice” in the book of Philippians 7 times and “joy” 5 times.

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.

– Philippians 4:10

The Philippian church had encouraged and financially supported Paul earlier in his ministry. Once again, they ministered to Paul, and he expressed his joy and gratitude to them.

Paul wants them to understand that he has learned to be content in every circumstance of his life. Contentment is not natural for most of us; it must be learned and experienced over time.

Paul identifies the source of his sufficiency as being “in Christ,” who grants strength to believers. He had learned to trust God in every circumstance.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

– 2 Corinthians 12:9

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Show Notes

For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God’s Truth, where we provide additional resources to support your Walk with God.

Paul’s heart rejoices, and he expresses his gratitude. Epaphroditus and others delivered the gift from the Philippians to Paul while he was imprisoned in Rome. They recognized his suffering—awaiting trial before Nero—and wished to demonstrate their care and concern for him.

“Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.” Philippians 4:14

As their spiritual leader, Paul aims to assist them in developing the “grace of giving.” He uses a business term here—this gift is credited to your account. When they gave a gift to Paul, they gave it to the Lord and His work.

“They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” Philippians 4:18b

In the Old Testament, various types of sacrifices—incense, grain offerings, and animal sacrifices—were presented to God that pleased and were acceptable to Him. Sacrifices were also given in the New Testament, with the greatest being Christ’s offering of Himself for the sins of all mankind.

“Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:2

Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 4:19-23

SHOW NOTES:

The Book of Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Philippi. Paul deeply loves these brothers and sisters, who have been his partners in spreading the Gospel message. He extends the grace and peace of Christ to them. Paul desires to see these believers again, but he is uncertain about the outcome of his trial before Nero in Rome.

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

– Philippians 1:21

Paul reminds his readers to reflect on Jesus’ example: Jesus Christ humbled Himself as a servant and died a criminal’s death. He encourages us to “press on.” Even though we have not yet achieved perfection, we will be spiritually perfected when we are welcomed into heaven.

Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

– Philippians 3:13-14

Paul concludes his letter with a beautiful doxology and benediction.

And to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

– Philippians 4:21

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

– Philippians 4:23

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