7 day plan

A week with the Philippians

Day 5 of 7

NIV

Philippians 4:9

9Whatever 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.

Reference:  A Philippian believer: “Now Paul says we need to do what he does, and put into practice what we have learned, received or heard from him – this seems a bit audacious! What right does he have to make himself a role model for us?

“Although…maybe it is because he follows God, always ask his help to share the good news of Jesus, and encourages believers, in spite of his situation.

I mean, Paul had a really tough time recently, so perhaps he is someone I can learn from. Paul trusts God and experiences the peace he talks about, steadiness and perseverance despite his circumstances. I guess even though life may not feel peaceful, Paul is reminding us our foundation, our identity, our reality and our peace, is in Jesus.”

A few thoughts for us…

  1. Thank God for the real peace we have in him.
  2. How can we continue to grow God’s kingdom in our current situation? Pray about 2-3 ways you can keep doing this, this week.
  3. Pray God works through all believers, to bring more people to know him.

Prayer:  Father – I am so thankful that you are with me, and give me peace. Thank you for entrusting the truth of the good news to faithful people, who have in turn passed it all the way down to me, now. Please help me to continue to pass on the good news, and help me continue the rest of my life, trusting Jesus. Help me know how I can urge others on in this.
Amen.

The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.

Days

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2
3
4
5
6
7

Philippians 4:1-23

Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity

1Therefore, 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!

2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3Yes, 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

4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, 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. 9Whatever 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.

Thanks for Their Gifts

10I 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. 11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I 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. 13I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

14Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15Moreover, 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; 16for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 18I 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. 19And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

20To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

21Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus.

The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings.

22All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.

23The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.