This week we are going to take an extra look at Paul’s letter to the church at Phillipi. So much to be shared. So much to learn from this letter. So much that we are only going to look a few verses, at least a few each day.
Let’s dive in. This is good…
Philippians 4:1,4-5 NLT
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work… 4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Oh this is good. Hear Paul and his heart. He says, “stay true to the Lord.” That can go several ways. But let’s take it as an encouragement to greater and stronger days. It could be a correction and scourging, yet I see this as a word about their commitment to follow Jesus. Stay at it. Don’t stop now.
Paul goes on to say, “I love you and long to see you.” That is what friends say to those who mean much to them. Paul loved these people and desired that they know and stay confident in who they are and what they are doing. His being with them would be an even bigger encouragement.
When you care about someone, you build up their lives and give them more value. That is why Paul shares that these people aren’t only his friends but they are his joy and crown in the work. Loving what you do and living in your calling leads others to do the same. These people filled Paul’s tank with even more to share with others.
Finally, what Paul puts out there is somewhat of a shot in the arm or a booster. I don’t think this is a tag on, like a PS at the end of a letter.
Always be full of joy; rejoice often and often.
Let all see you consider others.
Those two things are strong. In fact a person who is strong will lead others to be strong. Joy is contagious. Helping others win also helps you win.
What do we need to remember most? Good question. Jesus is coming back. Always be watching and be ready. No one knows when this is going to happen, but it is any time. That makes serving others and living in joy much more important.
Paul’s words in these few verses give us a lot to chew on, and we will get even more the rest of this week though the e-devotions look at the verses ahead in Philippians 4.
Have a great week!
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