Listen: From his imprisonment Paul wrote: 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. Philippians 4:12 (NIV) Reflect: Many of us […]
Philippians 4:11
Listen: Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. (Philippians 4:11) Reflect: One dictionary definition of contentment is: If you are content with something, you are willing to accept it, rather than wanting something more or something better. I would go a step further and […]
Philippians 4:10
Listen: “I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it.” (NRSV) Reflect: As I read this verse and prayed about it, the word opportunity stood out. When the Philippian church finally had the opportunity to bless Paul financially, they […]
Philippians 4:9
Listen “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.” (Philippians 4:9 NIV) Reflect This verse has always bothered me, because Paul claims so much. His confidence in his teachings and in his behaviour is such that he […]
Philippians 4:8
Listen “Finally, brothers, 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.” (NIV) Reflect I love this verse. Yes, it’s challenging and yes, I get it wrong thousands of times a day (because apparently, we […]
Philippians 4:7
Listen And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (NRSV) Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. (The Message) Reflect […]
Philippians 4:6
Listen “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6) Reflect “At present the whole world, including the wealthiest of nations, lies deep in worries and cares. But within the society and organism that proceeds from Christ, worries can and […]
Philippians 4:5
Listen: Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5, NRSV) Reflect: I’ll never forget the expert nurse who attended me when I was in labor with my youngest son. I marveled at her ability to anticipate my physical needs and the gentle way she handled me. Her attuned, peaceful presence […]
Philippians 4:4
Philippians 4:1-13. Our reflections for the following 13 weeks will be based on this passage from Philippians. We invite you to weekly read all 13 verses as a way of soaking in scripture. Listen: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, Rejoice. (Philippians 4:4) Reflect: My physiotherapist wheeled me back into the ward. The nurse […]