(REFLECTIONS ON Philippians 4:1-9)

Paul encouraged his beloved, his joy and crown, the fruit of his labor to stand firm in the Lord. Standing firm in the Lord speaks of a journey of endurance, patience in the midst of trials, and a commitment til the end.

Paul cared deeply not just about the salvation of the Philippians, but also about how they grew in Christ in the long-term. His joy and crown wasn’t just the result of a gospel event where thousands are converted, but more that there was growth, development, and a maturity in Christ.

Paul cared deeply about the entire lifespan of a believer from unbelief to belief, to Spirit filled movement in Christ for God’s work. He wanted true companions in the Gospel, and not just passersby and this required depth and breadth and time spent in the Lord.

Again, Paul implored the church to “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” It is in the Lord, in Christ, and by the Holy Spirit that would produce an overflowing spring of spiritual work and a life going from a mature believer out into creation.

In the Lord there is also a gentle spirit, because standing on the rock that is Jesus gives the believer stability, longevity, and the peace of God. There should be a gentle spirit that the world experiences in us and through us because of our connection to Christ by the Holy Spirit.

Gentle doesn’t just mean being passive, but rather speaks of a stable peace and giving up of a need to control, knowing that the Lord is in control, and that the Lord is faithful.

This is cultivated through prayer, supplication with thanksgiving and the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus.

Let your gentle spirit be known to all, because our hearts and minds are guarded by Christ Jesus, filling our often anxious souls with the peace of God, which is a peace despite turbulent circumstances.

Let your gentle spirit be known to all, and let that lead to more people coming into the presence of the Lord, turning from the world and temporary pleasures and peace, into life in Christ which is forever.

Pastor Michael Lu
Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Philippians 4