READ Philippians 4:1-4

The first four verses of this chapter deliver an exhortation to believers for unity and joy.  Some people seem to live in turmoil and sorrow.  They are rarely joyful but rather miserable.  A lack of joy results in a lack of peace.  

1.  PEACE COMES BY STANDING FAST – “Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.”

To “stand fast” simply means to stand firm or to persevere. A believer who stands fast is one who prays and keeps his focus upon the Lord.  Standing fast results in peace.

2.  PEACE COMES BY AGREEMENT AND UNITY – “I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. 3And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel…”

You will never experience peace by living life at odds with others.  Paul exhorted these two women in the church to “be of the same mind in the Lord”.  Agreement brings unity and unity brings peace.

3.  PEACE COMES BY REJOICING CONTINUALLY – “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.”

Notice our rejoicing is in the Lord.  People allow circumstance to rob them of this important key to joy.  Rejoicing is repetitive.  Rejoicing is to be continual.  Paul was in prison rejoicing.  Now, if Paul can rejoice in prison, you too can rejoice anywhere, at any time.  This will bring you peace.

Your Friend and His,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  What does it mean to “stand fast in the Lord”?

2.  Have you ever been a divisive person in the church?  How should you handle problems?

3.  What are some circumstances that occasionally rob you of your joy?

4.  What practical things can you do to develop a habit of rejoicing?