A 'Wrap' on Philippians.

Back in September, we began studying Paul’s letter to the Philippians, though now ‘it is finished’ . . . we have come to the end.  What a letter it has been!  I feel like I learned more about Paul’s softer side, as he expressed his love for his Philippian brothers and sisters repeatedly and in several different ways.  Everything Paul lived for revolved around Jesus Christ.    

Though just four chapters, and written while Paul was incarcerated by the Roman government, Philippians is chalk-full of verses that are hopeful, forward-looking, inspirational, devotional, and purposeful.  Let’s take another look together at several of them, shall we?

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.  1.6

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain 1.21

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.   Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.  2.3-4

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:  he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! 2.5,8

Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.  2.12-13 

One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.  3.13-14 

Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ… 3.20

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  4.4

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  4.6-7 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  4.8

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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.  4.11-12

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.  4.13

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.  4.19

Perhaps you have other verses from this letter of Paul’s that spoke to you, but these few I truly treasure, and have memorized most of them.  You just gotta love Paul, don’t you? 

Grace and Peace,

Christine