Meditations on Philippians 4:4-7 CEB
“Be glad in the Lord always! Again I say, be glad!” V. 4
Always? But it’s not always easy. Life happens, and life is not always kind. All the more reason for the next verse:
“Let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people. The Lord is near.” V. 5
Believers should be known for their kindness. We never know what a person might be struggling with. We can be intentional in our gentleness in dealing with people because we know that sometimes God uses our feet, our hands, our smiles, to help others in their struggles.
“Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks.” V. 6
Whether it’s struggles we see in others, or our own difficulties, we are invited (commanded?) to bring them to God. He already knows the outcome. He wants to see our submission to Him. And because we know Jesus loves us, we can trust Him and give Him thanks.
Today let’s do this. We can pray that we will have eyes to see and hearts to care for the people God sends our way. We can reach out to them in gentleness and kindness, lifting our burdens and theirs to Jesus Who loves us and has all power and authority in His hands. We should thank Him for the peace that He gives us!
“Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.” V. 7
