Whenever I read Phillippians 4:8 I am reminded of my Dad who always had it in a frame on his desk at work "Whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
As I read it again this morning I was struck by the context.
" Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which you have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." Phillipians 4:4-9
I come across all sorts of circumstances in life that cause anxiety or stress to varying degrees. Often they involve other people and the way I feel I am being treated, or things that don't work out according to my plans.. How easy it is, when praying in these situations, to dwell on the cause for my anxiety- to pray that the situation might go away- and to become more anxious or stressed instead of finding myself in the peace of God. While praying, I am still thinking about how hard-done-by I am! Paul exhorts us here to let our requests be made known to God (not necessarily gossip about them to others, focussing on how badly I'm being treated!) - with thanksgiving- and then ... "if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things!" (Now that I can share with others!)
This has been such a help to me! There is so much to be thankful for in every circumstance, not least being the opportunity to grow and partake of more of God's own nature!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
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Yes Amaria, such a powerful verse. I have it on the little business card I have on hand to give to people who ask for our address.
ReplyDeleteYes a grateful heart is the secret of a joyful life.
Love and Blessings - Jan
Amen sister what a wonderful post, and so love Philippians, one of my favortie books in the Bible, God bless you today, and have a good day in the lord. Hugs Barbara
ReplyDeleteThank you Amaria...I appreciate your thoughts here...they are oh, so true. I was also just struck by the verse, "Let your moderation be known to all men." Wow...I haven't seen or thought of it before...but it's like a light just went on for me...and it is alright that self-control in every area of our lives be evident...whichever of our five senses we're using to exercise it in! So little evident moderation in the world today...so much to think about. Thank you for sharing!
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