Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Verse 4 today reminds me of John 15:11, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” We can rejoice in the Lord, we should rejoice in the Lord, always. It is what He wants for us–peace that surpasses all understanding and joy that overflows in a world that is often lacking in both.
Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
But how do we go about that in a world that is often chaotic? Verse 6 gives us a guide: Don’t be anxious. Instead, pray and petition, give thanks, and present your requests to God. The same Lord who told us in John 15:11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” He wants us to bring everything to Him. He wants us to channel everything through Him. He wants us to live in joy and peace. He is for us. Always.
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Lord, Sometimes I let the world get into my head. Sometimes I forget just how close You are. Verse 5 reminds me that You are near. The world tells me You are so very far away. Forgive me when I forget the truths You tell me. Help me to bring everything to You–the joy, the pain, sorrow, weariness, every single thing. Help me to rejoice in You, always. Draw me closer. Amen.
Philippians 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.