Tuesday, December 17-Joy
Philippians 4:4-7
The words “Stand Firm” are mentioned in scripture over 125 times. God places them in scripture as a reminder that he will never leave his children and will return to claim us. For us followers of Christ “standing firm” is possible because God has given us the same power that raised Jesus from death to be a shining light in our broken world filled with turmoil, conflict, and despair since the Fall. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 says, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”
The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Church in Philippi as he was imprisoned in Rome or Ephesus. Paul states in Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God.” How could someone be this calm in the face of this overwhelming adversity? The Apostle Paul himself was executed after writing these letters to various churches throughout the early church. Paul stood firm in his devotion to Jesus. In Romans 8:38-39 Paul says, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The Peace of God was on Paul’s heart, which superseded his understanding and allowed his heart to be guarded and at peace; he would be joining the Lord soon in eternity. This meant his work on earth wasn’t done. Paul’s determination and devotion to God gifted us these letters of encouragement and thanksgiving for what God does in our lives daily. When I analyze Philippians 4:4-7, I am comforted and challenged to do better about ministering to others and calming my heart during times of trouble. This last year has been both challenging and rewarding. Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:5, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will repeat it: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”
I encourage myself and all who read this to Rejoice in the Lord as he is near and to “Stand Firm” in our faith in Jesus Christ. We have nothing to fear, and his resurrection is our hope! Bless you all during this Advent season. Merry Christmas, and God bless you!
JOE KIDWELL