Philippians 4:1-9 (NRSV)
Read Philippians 4:1-9 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 4Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. Verse 2I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Verse 3Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Verse 4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Verse 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Verse 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Verse 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Verse 8Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Verse 9Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
Devotion
What was going on with Euodia and Syntyche? Paul urges unity! He says: "Help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel…” They are co-workers, partners in the work of the gospel. Does it matter what was happening? What matters is Paul’s heart.
Two commands follow: Rejoice! Be gentle! Then there came a comforting word, not unlike the word in the Old Testament lesson (“You are with me!”): “The Lord is near.” The reassurance does not end there. It continues with prayer, a blessing, and encouragement. We all can use a benediction like that, wherever we are, whatever we have done.
Prayer
Bless us, O God, with whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, and excellent. Amen.