Today’s Reading: Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
More About Philippians 4:6-7
Written by Lysa TerKeurst (First 5 Ministries)
Discovering the path to peace in our minds isn’t the only type of peace Paul addresses in Philippians 4. He also speaks to God’s desire for us to have peace in our relationships.
At the beginning of this chapter, we read Paul’s plea for unity between two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Sadly, even within the body of Christ we are prone to the effects of sin and the disunity and disruption it can cause. And apparently these two women were allowing their sinful nature to stir up all kinds of problems within the local church.
But Paul reminds them, and each of us, how unity is possible – “in the Lord.” Paul calls them to regain and maintain the unity that is found in Christ with an appeal for them to be like-minded. This can only take place when people choose to turn their hearts and minds toward Christ and find their commonality in Him. It is from this place that unity can be established and maintained.
And this isn’t the first time Paul speaks to the issue of unity. All throughout his letter to the Philippians, he reminds us of God’s call for us to live this way. It is a unity that is reinforced by our citizenship, which is found in heaven. (Philippians 1:27) A unity that is bound together by the power of the Spirit of God. (Philippians 1:27; Philippians 4:2)
And finally, Paul calls us to a unity that stands firm even in the midst of hardship, trials and persecution from the enemies of God. (Philippians 1:28; 3:18) With all of this in mind, Paul urges us to “stand firm” in unity, in light of all that the Lord has done and will do.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the tender ways You offer to help me when my heart feels anxious and fearful. Instead of shaming me for my feelings, You offer to sit with me in the midst of them. Instead of expecting me to pull myself together, You offer me Your Words that hold me together and bring me peace. You are such a good and gracious Father. One I know I can trust and call on, at all times. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Journal Prompt: Are there any anxious thoughts that have been stealing your peace recently? What verse can you focus on this week to redirect your heart and mind to truth?
