Some thoughts for Today, The Christian's Contentment, Philippians 4

Philippians 4

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Think of Excellence

4 Therefore, my beloved brethren ^[a]whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.

² I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to ^[b]live in harmony in the Lord. ³ Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! ⁵ Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is ^[c]near.⁶ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all ^[d]comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is ^[e]lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, ^[f]dwell on these things. ⁹ The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

God’s Provisions

¹⁰ But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. ¹¹ Not that I speak ^[g]from want, for I have learned to be ^[h]content in whatever circumstances I am. ¹² I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. ¹³ I can do all things ^[i]through Him who strengthens me. ¹⁴ Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.

¹⁵ You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the ^[j]first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; ¹⁶ for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. ¹⁷ Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the ^[k]profit which increases to your account.¹⁸ But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am ^[l]amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus ^[m]what you have sent, ^[n]a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will supply ^[o]all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. ²⁰ Now to our God and Father be the glory^[p]forever and ever. Amen.

²¹ Greet every ^[q]saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. ²² All the ^[r]saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.

²³ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Footnotes:

1. Philippians 4:1 Lit and longed for
2. Philippians 4:2 Or be of the same mind
3. Philippians 4:5 Or at hand
4. Philippians 4:7 Lit mind
5. Philippians 4:8 Or lovable and gracious
6. Philippians 4:8 Lit ponder these things
7. Philippians 4:11 Lit according to
8. Philippians 4:11 Or self-sufficient
9. Philippians 4:13 Lit in
10. Philippians 4:15 Lit beginning of
11. Philippians 4:17 Lit fruit
12. Philippians 4:18 Lit made full
13. Philippians 4:18 Lit the things from you
14. Philippians 4:18 Lit an odor of fragrance
15. Philippians 4:19 Or every need of yours
16. Philippians 4:20 Lit to the ages of the ages
17. Philippians 4:21 Or holy one
18. Philippians 4:22 V 21, note 1

NIV Application Commentary

Paul begins in verse 10 with an exuberant expression of joy that the Philippians have again shown their concern for him. The Philippians had generously supplemented the income Paul earned in the workshop during his attempts to establish other churches both in Macedonia (4:15–16) and Achaia (2 Cor. 11:7–9). Perhaps because of their poverty (2 Cor. 8:1–2), however, they had not been able to help Paul in this way recently. Thus Paul rejoices “greatly” that the opportunity to show their concern for him has returned.

Despite this, Paul wants the Philippians to know that his joy does not depend on the alleviation of his physical discomfort; thus, although he is in prison, Paul says that he is not in need (vv. 11–13). He has learned to be content in every circumstance. The term “content” (au tarkes, v. 11) was used by Stoic philosophers of Paul’s time to mean “self-sufficient,” and in their view this characteristic was the most valuable attribute of the wise person. Indeed, like the wise Stoic, Paul does not consider physical deprivation an unmitigated disaster nor physical comfort the sign of success. But unlike the Stoic, Paul does not find the resources for this attitude in himself. They reside instead in the Lord, through whom he can face all things (v. 13).

So Paul remains unperturbed either by his own imprisonment and possible death or by fellow believers who seek to intensify his suffering. As long as Christ is being preached, Paul is joyful (1:18), and he does not want the Philippians to think that the physical comfort their gifts have made possible has increased his ability to cope with the difficulties at hand.

From NIVAC: Philippians by Frank Thielman. Published by Zondervan Academic.

Philippians 4

The Bible Panorama

V 1: FIRMNESS In the light of Christ’s second coming and the present personal knowledge of the risen Christ, Christians are to stand fast in the Lord. 

V 2–3: FELLOWSHIP This is expressed in fellowship with each other, both in solving our differences and in working together with others. The Philippian Christians are urged to do both of these things in the aftermath of a dispute between two women in the church.

V 4: FERVOUR Again, Paul urges the Christians to rejoice in the Lord always and repeats this exhortation again immediately. 

V 5: FUNDAMENTAL ‘The Lord is at hand’ is fundamental to this verse, this chapter, the whole of the book of Philippians, and the whole of the Christian life. The knowledge of Christ’s presence with us now, and the certainty of His glorious coming again soon, should produce Christian gentleness and shape the Christian’s life in every facet. This should be true individually, with other believers, and in the world in which every Christian lives.

 V 6–7: FAITH Prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving are the expressions of faith to be made known to God in everything. Thus anxiety is dealt with and is replaced with the surpassing peace of God through Christ.

 V 8–9: FINALLY Paul’s final exhortation is to concentrate on things that are noble, just, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy. Christians should concentrate and meditate on these things, rather than on the things of the world. This is the example Paul set at Philippi. In following it, the church knows the presence of the God of peace with them.

 V 10–13: FORTIFIED Paul rejoices in the material support of Christians. Nevertheless, in all circumstances, adverse and favourable, Paul finds that he ‘can do all things through Christ who strengthens [him]’. This brings contentment to him even when he is in physical need

.V 14–16: FAITHFULNESS Notwithstanding this confidence in God, the repeated and continual faithfulness of the church is gratefully commended by him. They sent money to Paul when he was in distress and continually when he was in Thessalonica, 

V 17–20: FULNESS Paul is grateful that, currently through their giving, God is fully supplying everything that he needs. Selflessly, he is grateful for the fruit that will come to the giver, knowing that God will also supply all their needs ‘according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus’. Their gift rises to God like a pleasing and sweet-smelling sacrifice.

 V 21–23: FRUIT The fruit of the gospel is not only in Philippi, where people have trusted Christ, but also among his captors in Rome. Some may have been Christians before Paul went there, but doubtless some have been the fruit of his witness, even in chains. God’s grace, which he wishes for them all, is certainly upon him.

The Bible Panorama. Copyright © 2005 Day One Publications.

I was wondering… who you’re talking to Written by Vicky Walker

I was wondering… who you’re talking to

Written by Vicky Walker

OK, let’s get to down to business. It’s safe to assume you’re here because you don’t want to fly solo any more. You’re proactive, not just waiting for God to drop the perfect partner into the seat next to you on Sunday.

You’ve prayed (yes of course it’s praying if you say amen after whinging for an hour about still being single… right?), you might have fasted, you may even have enlisted a network of supportive cheerleaders (ideally not sporting Lycra and pom-poms) to encourage you along the way.

You’ve read the dating / getting ready for dating / enjoying dating / seriously, still going on about dating? / relationship / engagement / marriage books. All of them. Twice.

You’ve done everything you’ve been told its ok to do and stopped just short of tattooing Wife or Husband Material across your forehead (note: while it does demonstrate commitment, this level of clarity can backfire).

You’re ready. Except, well, there’s just one thing… Have you remembered to actually speak to people?

I recently undertook the earth-shattering responsibility of being ‘beverage pourer’ at an event (and you thought I was just a regular person). ‘What would you like?’ I asked a man queuing for drinks.

He raised a suggestive eyebrow and launched into a speech which included desires other than his preferred brew. Resistible content but full marks for effort.

Alongside him was a man who had let it be known publicly he was ‘actively seeking’ marriage and yet, surrounded by ladies of all kinds, his focus was solely and intently on acquiring and customising his tea.

I admire anyone who takes hydration that seriously, of course – it’s high on many people’s list of ideal partner requirements – but I wondered if he’d actually noticed who he was surrounded by.

Had he realised that the wife and family he openly sought could only come through a first conversation with someone, somewhere? Someone who might be one of the many single women standing nearby at an event, for example. Someone who at first glance might seem like just a regular person missing the heavenly glow that would mark them out as The One, no conversation needed. It appeared not.

Being aware helps, as does being realistic, but it can be intimidating to jump in and start a conversation with a stranger. However – spoiler alert – at some point you’re going to have to speak to the person you want to spend your life with.

It’s kind of the point. And yet my suggestion a friend should talk to a woman I thought he’d hit it off with was met with horror. This was apparently terribly direct.

Perhaps I could instead organise a weekend at a spa for a reasonably large, but not too large, group, say around 10 people, at which they could both be guests and mingle in a no-pressure environment? Guess my answer.

Give it a go. Don’t wait to be chased.
Don’t wait for another day when a mystical dose of courage will manifest.
Talk to people. Talk to someone you might not usually talk to.
Not a cheesy line there’s no good response to.
Not – especially not – about what you’re looking for from a spouse sent from the Lord.
Talk about them, and you, and life, and music, art, sport, the world, beautiful things, interesting things, funny things, anything.

Maybe they won’t be someone you end up in blissful-lurve-together-forever with, but you will connect with another human, maybe make a friend, maybe expand your social life, get better at connecting, have more to talk about, think about, develop, grow, like more, love more and lots of other fun things it would be a shame to miss out on just because you didn’t look around and think “They look interesting” and then go to say hello.

Read more articles on: Dating & Relationships

About Vicky Walker

Vicky Walker is a writer and speaker, among other things. Her book ‘Do I have to be good all the time?’ about life, love and awkward moments is available now from www.vickywalker.info

How to Make Your Wife Happy With You, from All Pro Dad.

Home » Articles » Dads & Marriage » How to Make Your Wife Happy With You

The below suggestions come from the book Educating The Whole Hearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson, and we think their right on!

All Pro Dads, you know your wife is happy when you…

·         Initiate and lead regular planning times with your wife, without the children (and you plan the baby-sitter!).

·         Take the kids regularly for several hours on planned, meaningful outings…i.e., take them away (see below). Taking them to the Chick-fil-A Playground while you have coffee and read the paper does not qualify as an outing. Your wife wants to know that the time will be more than just babysitting.

·         Assist with the "Uppers" whenever possible, and be sensitive to the "Downers."

·         Defend and protect your wife's time boxes against time consumers (people, distractions, children, calls, etc.).

·          Plan in time boxes to be with your children during the day and the week, especially when it gives your wife free time, or when it makes her tasks easier (such as while she is preparing dinner).

·         Budget in your heart and mind (and checkbook) for paid household help, if you are able, especially when your children are young. Anyhelp goes a long way.

·         prepare an arsenal of ideas that you can do with the children on a moment's notice (see below).

·         are sensitive to the end of the day stress level, planning ahead to take control of the kids at the end of the day even when you are tired.

Do-Dads:

Activities Dad can do with the kids to give Mom time alone.

Big Times (outings):

·         Take them to the park.

·         Take them to a nature center.

·         Take them to a lake or beach area.

·         Take them to a museum.

·         Ride bikes in the country with them.

·         Take them on a mini field trip.

·         Go on a hike with them.

·         Go swimming with them.

·         Take them to the library reading time.

·         Play tennis with them.

·         Take them to special events.

·         Take them to seasonal festivals.

Little Times (innings):

·         Read books to them.

·         Play a game with them.

·         Throw a ball or shoot baskets with them.

·         Take a walk around the block with them.

·         Teach them something.

·         Clean up the yard together.

·         Make a tent with them.

·         Build something with them.

·         Give them "driving" lessons.

·         Play table tennis with them.

·         Overhaul bicycles (clean, tighten, etc.) together.

Dad-Dates

Every child needs individual time with Dad. Plan regular times to take each child on a "date" to be together and talk about life.

·         Go out for breakfast, child's choice of restaurant, even if it's the donut shop. Go as early as possible to make it more special.

·         Go to a favorite park, playground, or outdoor area. Take a picnic meal or snack. Play and talk.

·         With sons, plan an overnight campout. With daughters, plan a dress up night out for dinner.

·         Take them for a special shopping trip.

Some thoughts for Today, Perseverance and Faith

2 Thessalonians 1

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Thanksgiving for Faith and Perseverance

1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy,

To the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: 2 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater; 4 therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your [a]perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.

 5 This is a plain indication of God’s righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering. 6 [b]For after all it is only just [c]for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 7 and to give relief to you who are afflicted [d]and to us as well [e]when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with [f]His mighty angels in flaming fire,

 8 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,

 10 when He comes to be glorified [g]in His [h]saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—for our testimony to you was believed. 11 To this end also we pray for you always, that our God will [i]count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power, 12 so that the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Footnotes:

2 Thessalonians 1:4 Or steadfastness

2 Thessalonians 1:6 Lit If indeed

2 Thessalonians 1:6 Or in the sight of

2 Thessalonians 1:7 Lit along with us

2 Thessalonians 1:7 Lit at the revelation of the Lord Jesus

2 Thessalonians 1:7 Lit the angels of His power

2 Thessalonians 1:10 Or in the persons of

2 Thessalonians 1:10 Or holy ones

2 Thessalonians 1:11 Or make

The Bible Panorama

2 Thessalonians 1

V 1–2: THESSALONIANS Paul, along with Sylvanus and Timothy, again writes to the church of the Thessalonians. He uses an identical greeting to the one in the first letter

. V 3: THANKSGIVING Paul again thanks God for them because of their growing faith and love which abounds towards each person in the church.

V 4–7: TRIBULATIONS The growth of their faith and love is in the context of the tribulations that they are enduring along with persecution. This is producing patience in them that causes Paul to hold them up as an example to other churches, and he reminds them that God will repay those who are troubling them at Christ’s second coming.

 V 8–10: THEN This takes Paul on to his focus on the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. This will be a day of vengeance for those who do not obey His gospel and who will be punished with ‘everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord’. ‘On that day’, He will come to be ‘glorified in His saints’.

 V 11–12: THEREFORE This causes Paul and his party to pray for the Thessalonian church, that they will glorify God and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and receive divine grace.

The Bible Panorama. Copyright © 2005 Day One Publications.

Family, Some Thoughts

Dating for a God’s Man: 4 Keys to Success 12:00PM EDT 9/6/2013 KENNY LUCK/EVERY MAN MINISTRIES

 

What are some of the more difficult aspects of dating for godly men? 

Dating is one of the most interesting social studies. Two people with different personalities begin a relationship. With past baggage, a variety of cultural expectations, socio-economic histories, family background, values, morals and faith, you might wonder if it’s possible that dating can actually lead tomarriage.

From the very opening line to the closing technique, finding dating truths for God’s men can be difficult because there’s not much “dating,” as we know it today, in the Bible.

For example:

Do you ever wonder what Adam’s approach to Eve was? Something like, “Hey, God made me. He made you. Let’s get it on.”

Or Ruth, who slept at Boaz’s feet, in nonverbal communication that says, “Take me. I am yours.”

Samson jumped the gun with Delilah, falling deep into a premarital relationship that probably involved sex and eventually short-circuited Samson’s ultimate potential.

David never bothered to date Bathsheba; instead, he just had her husband killed.

Then there’s that book in the Bible called Song of Solomon. This interesting book is located in the very middle, or “heart,” of the Bible. It’s a lovelorn exchange of adoration between two people obviously very smitten. Song of Solomon shows me that God is a big fan of dating. It also tells me dating must involve respect, patience, self-control and fearlessness. 

Respect. Each player in this love story humbles themselves while showing ultimate respect for the other. I know men love to feel respected, but in Song of Solomon, the male writer also shows respect for his woman with compliments, protective language and encouraging words.

Patience. When two people are dating each other and cannot be together, there’s a test of patience. In Song of Solomon, I see that each player dealt with their longing desire by taking time to write down their thoughts. This is a sign of patience. If they did not write out these love notes, they could have become impatient and looked for another substitute.

Self-control. When reading this book, I wonder what self-control they actually had. For God’s man, dating must be an exercise in self-control. (I’ll explain in future articles the difference between “quick” and “quality” dating.) Ultimately, controlling your thoughts, words and behavior will show your potential mate you can be trusted. So, how do you show self-control? Trust God’s plan and obey His Word. She will totally dig this about you!

Fearlessness. Let’s face it: Dating is scary. There’s a lot on the line, including your heart. You have to take a step of faith and be fearless for God’s way. But if you have respect, patience and self-control operating in you, then there’s no need to fear. You can rest in the peace that God’s plan is good and you are following His path.

Kenny Luck, founder of Every Man Ministries and Men’s Pastor at Saddleback Church, provides biblically-oriented teaching and leadership for men and pastors seeking relevant, timely material that battle cultural, worldly concepts threatening men and God’s men. Follow Kenny and Every Man Ministries now on Facebook, Twitter (@everyMM) and YouTube.