JOY IN RESTING IN CHRIST
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 4:1-9
INTRODUCTION
Today’s lesson brings to an end our study of the book of Philippians. You would recall that in chapter 1, we learnt that there is joy in living for Christ [Phil 1:12]. Then we talked about the right attitude in serving Christ in unity; without complaints, or unnecessary arguments [Phil 2:14]. In chapter 3, we went on to discuss the joy in knowing Christ. We were told that our focus should be the finishing line and that means reigning with Christ in eternity [Phil 3:13-14].
For today, we will concern ourselves with the joy in resting in Christ Jesus. To accomplish this, there is need to show contentment, always [Phil 4:11]; our circumstance notwithstanding. There are three [3] outlines as detailed below.
OUTLINE 1: FINDING REST BY RESOLVING CONFLICT [Phil 4:2-5]
• Euodias and Syntyche [both women] had a dispute/conflict. Apostle Paul urged both to
settle their disagreement because they are of the same mind with God. Phil 4:2, Phil 2:2.
• In Phil 4:3, Paul called for the intervention of the brethren in resolving the dispute. He
acknowledged that these women worked with him in spreading the good news. He
acknowledged that spreading the gospel opens the door for your name to be written in the
Book of Life. Rev 20:15.
• In Phil 4:4, Paul urged us to be full of joy no matter the circumstance. Recall that he wrote
this letter to the Philippians in captivity; yet he was full of joy knowing that the work of
God was progressing. The beauty of being filled with joy always is that, the possibility of
conflicts would be obliterated; since there will be no space in your soul for other vices
such as found in Gal 5:19-21. 1 Corinthians 6:20 .
• In Phil 4:5, he talks about moderation or gentleness. Doing things in a manner that will not
distract others from focusing on God. This is a pointer to Jesus Christ in the way He
humbled Himself [Phil 2:8]. We should live with the assurance that He will soon return to
take us home. Gal 5:22-23.
OUTLINE 2: FINDING REST THROUGH PREVAILING PRAYER [Phil 4:6-7]
• In verse 6, the Bible says we should be anxious for nothing. It is a command and not an
option. Matthew 6:26-28 serves as a guide. Rather in EVERYTHING, we should through
[prevailing] prayers present to God. Do not take anything for granted. Our attitude
should be to pray about everything and be thankful for anything. Remember, Jesus Christ
always gave thanks. John 11:41, Luke 22:19.
• For verse 7, three [3] things stand out: the peace of God, surpasses all understanding
and keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Peace is indeed a gift from God. Surpasses all understanding brings to the fore our
limitations in comprehending the ways of God [Isaiah 55:8] and keeping our hearts
speaks to strengthening our faith in Jesus Christ [Hebrews 11:6].
OUTLINE 3: FINDING REST BY RENEWING YOUR MIND [Phil 4:8-9]
• Verse 8 tells us the right place to put our minds. Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 10:5 lends
credence to where our minds should dwell. No doubt, these virtues in Phil 4:8 are
embedded in the fruit of the spirit in Gal 5:22-23.
• Phil 4:9. What is the essence of teaching or learning or receiving or seeing if we are not
able to put same into practice? Let us be followers of Christ just as Apostle Paul followed
Him. 1 Corinthians 4:17, Psalm 25:4
CONCLUSION
If we follow and work according to the teachings in the book of Philippians, the result
will be as captured in Phil 4:13. Therefore, what do we need to excel in this work? We
have the assurance that God will supply all you need according to His riches in glory by
Christ Jesus [Phil 4:19].
Thank You Jesus,
Salvation Prayers
If you don’t Know Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour and would like to accept him into your life as your personal Lord and Saviour, Please say this prayer:
Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from You. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward You. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that Your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send Your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your Will for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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