Philippians4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Lord Jesus, taking Paul’s words seriously, I, indeed, have more than ample reasons to rejoice in you today. You’re living in me, as my hope of glory; and my life is hidden in yours. You are my perfect righteousness and my constant Advocate, my sovereign Lord and my loving Spouse.
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Because of your great love for me, I can risk being gentle in relationships I might otherwise be critical or controlling. You are so near—both in terms of proximity and your return.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Do not be anxious about anything… really? That’s not easy, Lord, but you give grace for every command. So, with palms up, in surrender and praise, I give you the people I’d love to fix, the storylines I’d love to finish, the culture wars I’d love to win, the heartaches I’d love to heal, and the circumstances I’d love to alter.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Jesus, thank you for promising to set your peace as a garrison for my heart and mind. May your peace settle and center me when the storms rage, surprises happen, things break, and disappointments linger.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Jesus, you are the truest, most noble, right, pure, lovely and praiseworthy reality I can think of or imagine, so I set my gaze and affection on you—blessed author and finisher of our faith. Take my thoughts to think with your mind; overflow my heart with your beauty and compassion; free my hands and feet to serve at your bidding. So very Amen I pray, in your tender and triumphant name.
