A Deeper Look: Studying the Book of Philippians (Part 4 of 4)
This week, we will be finishing our study of Philippians in the fourth and final chapter. This chapter holds lots of biblical, yet practical tips for dealing with fear and anxiety. It also has many commonly used scriptures.
FAITH
Dani Fielder
6/16/20264 min read
Philippians 4 (with notes)
Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity
1 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!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Final Exhortations
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Why should we be anxious when God is on our side?
Petition: a formal, earnest request
This highlights our dependence on God and our inability to fulfill our own needs
Anxiety often indicates a lack of dependence in God because no matter how our situation turns out, we must trust that God is in control.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Thoughts of temptation or discouragement can come unannounced, but we can make conscious efforts to contemplate good things to keep our minds on track and on Christ.
Thanks for Their Gifts
10 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. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
In verses 11 and 12, Paul explains that he has learned that it is God who ultimately gives us the strength to endure whatever we may go through. He is the reason we can be content.
Although this scripture (Philippians 4:13) is widely known, quoted, and included in people's Instagram bios, it does not mean we have the ability to do anything and everything. I could not, for example, use this verse as a reason to believe that I could jump off a building and fly. Paul is, however, explaining that he can do "this," as in the things from verses 11 and 12, because God gives him the strength to do so.
14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
We should concern ourselves with the Kingdom of God, which is the most important thing. The richness that comes from God's glory in Christ Jesus is greater than the riches of this world. No matter what we face, we can depend on Jesus. He is enough.
20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
21 Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. 22 All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Here is a prayer to end this study through Philippians.
Father,
Thank you for all you have taught me in this time that I have been studying Philippians. I pray that this week, when I am out and about, be it at work or at the grocery store or at the gym, wherever, that I have the opportunity to encourage someone. I pray that you are able to use me in a mighty way to build your kingdom and give you glory. Help me to apply the scripture I have read by giving my anxieties to you in prayer with petition and thanksgiving. I will keep my mind on you and all the blessings I have in my life, even if things do not look how I'd like them to look. I am grateful that I am able to learn more about you each time I read my Bible. I desire to learn more about what your will is for my life. I know you have a purpose for my life. I know you will fulfill the desires of my heart if I keep my mind on you and align my will with yours. I trust and believe that. I bind any doubt, but I pray for wisdom and direction. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
Philippians 4: NIV bible: Youversion. YouVersion | The Bible App | Bible.com. (n.d.). https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.1.NIV