4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
5 Let your considerate spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is dignified, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, consider 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.
10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived thinking about me; indeed, you were thinking about me before, but you lacked opportunity.
11 Not that I speak from want, for I learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in abundance; in any and all things I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Scripture Referenced:
Philippians 4:15
Matthew 11:29
Ephesians 2:1-5
Romans 5:3-5
Proverbs 17:22
2 Corinthians 11:23-28
Proverbs 16:9
Quotes:
“This letter reminds us that we must rejoice whenever the gospel is advancing, regardless of the personal affliction we might have to suffer. Based on Paul’s tone as he writes this letter, we would never guess that he is actually writing from a prison cell. The apostle personally models how to live triumphantly and joyfully in the midst of difficult circumstances.” (Dr. Steven Lawson)
“True contentment comes only from God, and enables believers to be satisfied and at ease in the midst of any problem.” (Dr. John MacArthur)
“What he [Paul] is saying is that when he reached the limit of his resources and strength, even to the point of death, he was infused with the strength of Christ. He could overcome the most dire physical difficulties because of the inner, spiritual strength God had given him.” (Dr. John MacArthur)