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! (Philippians 4:1 NIV)
It’s easy to see the power of these words when you imagine being in prison, toward the end of your life, wondering if you will ever get out. Paul’s joy is in the people he has helped walk with God. His crown is filled with the jewels of their faith. Paul finds solace in his prison cell by looking to God, who is bigger than his cell, and Paul’s companions who are walking with that same God.
I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 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. (Philippians 4:2-3 NIV)
He encourages them to stop speaking and/or working against one another and to work together. Nothing is worth allowing the enemy to divide us. Then, he gives encouragement that we would all do well to remember, even memorize.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 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. (Philippians 4:4-8 NIV)
Take the time to read those lines again. They are worth reading over and over again. They are worth printing out and putting next to our bed, so we see them when we get up in the morning. They are worthy of embroidered pillows, framed pictures, plaques, and even memorization. These are God’s powerful, encouraging words.
Paul then gets personal with his friends in Philippi:
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. 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. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. (Philippians 4:9-14 NIV)
They had apparently helped him with some food or money. As we will see on Sunday, Paul’s final imprisonment was at his own expense. So, he needed to pay for his own food. He thanked them for their gift – especially since this was not the first time.
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; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 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. (Philippians 4:15-18 NIV)
Once again, we are reminded that God provides what we need to do what God calls us to do. Paul needed to pay his own way, in prison, and continue to preach the Gospel. God provided a way through the church in Philippi…and they were faithful.
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Greet all God's people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God's people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar's household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Philippians 4:19-23 NIV)
How about you? From where would you draw your joy? How would you encourage those who have learned from you and supported you? What would you share with them?
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