Philippians 4:2-9
Everyone likes a good movie. You can’t have a good movie without drama. Yet, so much of television would be negated if people just talked to each other. Peace really isn’t that hard to realize if you are willing to try. In our passage today, Paul explains how readily available God’s peace is – it’s available anytime or anyplace. If you struggle to find peace either with other people or within yourself, then Paul’s words in Philippians can speak directly to that.
We are continuing through a series on thankfulness and this week we are focused on the peace of God brought through His presence with us. A look at this is best done through the letter to the church in Philippi. While it is often read as the book of joy, Paul’s intent can be misunderstood of we don’t go deeper into why he wrote that to the Philippians. Filled with angry and retired Roman soldiers, the city of Philippi was basically a haven for evil as old men in retirement find ways to have their fun. They’d make money by running organized protection rackets or by turning people into the gov’t for cash. They would then turn and spend their money on illicit activities. You put that together and Philippi was a very dangerous place to be for a Christian seeking to build the kingdom of God. Thankfully, God’s peace flows through the midst of all these struggles and we see here how God’s peace is found both in our relationships and in ourselves.
God’s Peace Restores Relationships (v2-3)
As Paul is finishing up his letter, he highlights a relational conflict between two women. Both are shown to be believers and fellow laborers in the gospel, yet we see that conflict is still a normal part of life. Yes, interpersonal conflict—even inside the church among the faithful—is normal. Paul does not chastise the two, but offers a way for them to come together – by agreeing in the Lord. They are to find their common ground and remember who they are in the Lord. My best friend in college – we had our arguments as any two stubborn college kids would–but we always put in the work to find our common ground in Christ and our friendship grew after each argument. This holds true in marriages as well – the secret is not to avoid confrontation, but utilize each conflict as an opportunity to grow closer to each other through it. When seeking God in a relationship, His peace and health will flow through you both and health and spiritual fruit will flow freely as will the presence of God.
God’s Peace Relieves Stress (v4-7)
God’s ability to bring peace to external relationships also works the same with internal ones too – how you look at and treat yourself. The Mayo Clinic published a quote saying this:
“Most studies have shown that religious involvement and spirituality are associated with better health outcomes, including greater longevity, coping skills, and health-related quality of life (even during terminal illness) and less anxiety, depression, and suicide. Several studies have shown that addressing the spiritual needs of the patient may enhance recovery from illness.” (Forbes.com)
I like looking at it this way. Imagine a young child in elevator with dad who lifts them up. All the stress of not being able to see anything disappears when daddy picks her up and gives her his perspective. While mental struggles are a part of life in this broken world, we don’t have to be the one that bears those burdens. God offers, through His presence, to pick us up from the fray and carry us (and our burdens). With God present, He takes care of us and our personal burdens.
God’s Peace Delivers Anytime (v8-9)
Paul told the church in Rome that transformation comes through the renewal of the mind. In other words, we do as we believe. That is echoed again in v8-9 with Paul telling the Philippians to practice and focus your thoughts on God and His things. As we train our mind on God, we are with Him. We practice the presence of God by practicing the spiritual disciples. Scripture reading, bible memorization, prayer, consistent time spent regularly with God are ways to fix our eyes on Jesus (Heb 12:2) and allow His peace to reign inside us.
Next Steps
When we practice the presence of God in our lives, He brings peace both externally and internally and is literally available at all times. To have it requires us to practice being is His presence as a daily lifestyle. Here’s some ways to practice…
- Find common ground (Jesus) with people while in conflict and practice listening to each other completely.
- Rejoice in all circumstances no matter what.
- Fix your eyes on Jesus through daily focus and practice.
God’s peace is here – and for you. And it’s really as simple as holding your arms up and calling for daddy. Will you call to Him for peace today?
Comments are closed