Phil 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
I have read this section of scripture many times—in fact, I wrote a reflection centered around Phil 4:4 not that long ago—and yet, as I read this scripture this morning, I am captivated by the content, beginning with verse 7.
Phil 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
What do I need to do to feel the peace of God, which transcends all understanding? Instead of wasting time and energy with anxiety, which I’m incredibly guilty of, I need to go to God—prayerfully and with thanksgiving. I need to act with gentleness, with humility, and not forget that the Lord is near. Always. He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me. And I need to not get so caught up in worries, anxieties, hopes, fears, future plans that I lose sight of all I have right this minute because of my precious Savior. I need to rejoice in Him—His presence, His love, His mercy—always.
Phil 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture, for the comfort and peace that comes from You, for the wisdom to see Your word with new eyes this morning. Thank You for all that I am and all that I have because I have You. Thank You for the ability to bring all of my hopes and fears to You, to lift them up and lay them down, to move confidently forward knowing that You are with me. Always and through everything. Draw me closer. Amen.
Phil 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.