Philippians part 5-The Lord's Provision

We live in a world of anxiety.  There always seems to be something we need; worries, doing without, or relationships that are out of sync cause worry and stress.  This week Paul closes his letter giving advice about how to restore relationships, how to find peace, and what to keep your mind on.

 

Key Verse: Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  (Philippians 4:8-1 ESV)

 

Read chapter 4 of Philippians this week and consider the following:

 

Relationships v. 2-3:

What do you know about Euodia and Syntyche?  Who does Paul want to help them restore the relationship?

 

Journal prompt:  Have you ever been worried about two of your friends not getting along?  What did you do?  Does the situation change if they are both women of faith? What does God call you to do in those cases?

 

A Call to Rejoice v. 4-7:

As we previously learned, joy is the theme of this book.  In this section Paul gives instructions, truth, and results to following his advice on how to continue rejoicing despite discouraging circumstances.  Note what these are as you read this section. 

 

Journal prompt:  When you are anxious what do you turn to?  This last week I found myself drawn to shop online or pick up my phone and cruise Facebook instead of pray.  Those things never make us feel better but instead distract us from dealing with our feelings and pressing into God until the promise of peace comes as a guard to our heart and mind.  Think of a time when you were anxious and found prayer to be a source of strength.  If you can’t, will you give it a try this week?

 

The Life of the Mind v. 8-10

This section gives practical advice on what to think about when you start to worry.  Isn’t it true that when you think about not worrying, that’s what you do!  We can’t stop anxiety unless we replace it with something solid.  As you read these verses, make a list of these 8 attributes and provide a quick definition of what they are to make sure you understand them well.  If you’d like to look up the Greek words for each, try this link: http://v3.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Phl&c=4&v=8&t=NASB#s=t_conc_1107008 and click on each word for a definition. 

 

Journal Prompt: What is a common worry that you have?  When you studied this verse this week was there a word that jumped out at you that you could replace your worry with something God wants you to dwell on?  For example, if I worried a lot about how my kids were making lots of mistakes, I could instead think of things “worthy of praise” like what their gifts are.  Think about a way you could change a worry into something God wants you to think about. 

 

God’s Provision v. 10-23

Paul ends this letter thanking the Philippians for their support in his ministry.  In this section he explains how he is content in any circumstance. 

 

What financial circumstances has Paul found himself in? Does he seem bitter when he is destitute?  Why not?  Reread verse 4:13.  This is what I call a “coffee cup verse” because it seems to be one many Christians are familiar with.  If you look at the verse in context, for what circumstances does Paul receive strength for?  Paul is joyful at receiving there support because he is under house arrest and can’t work at this time.  Though he is grateful for there financial support, how does them giving to him bless them?

 

Journal prompt:  In this section, Paul commends the church of Philippi for their partnership with him.  Remember this church gave to him when no one else did, allowing him to teach in Rome for two years during this first imprisonment there, spreading the gospel to many that did not know Jesus.  How has God personally called you to further the gospel and support ministers like Paul?  How to you support the church you attend and serve? Like this church, is your life a fragrant offering?  In the Old Testament a fragrant offering was one that pleased the Lord based on the heart of how it was given…is there an area of your life that you are giving begrudging service?  Confess this to the Lord and ask Him to renew your passion for serving Him out of love instead of obligation.