Thankfulness brings Peace

Intro

Hear the Bible in bits and pieces

Out of context

Peace of God… normal sermon blessing (ending)

Philippians 4:2–3 NRSV

I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Women equal with Paul

Time of some disagreement

Philippians 4:4 NRSV

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.

Rejoice is an action as well as attitude

Doing the thing might bring feelings along with it

Philippians 4:5 NRSV

Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.

Gentleness involves humility

Earlier Paul exhorts us to think of others as better then ourselves

Philippians 4:6 NRSV

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Be completely honest with God even things you know you should not have

Leave it in God’s hands

Thankfulness “in all things” NOT “for all things”

Philippians 4:7 NRSV

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Peace - Shalom - well being - wholeness - healthy - tranquil

A peace that does not make sense - when all others are losing their heads

Keeps us faithful - protected in Christ

Philippians 4:8–9 NRSV

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

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