Friday, October 4, 2019

Thursday, October 3

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019


"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

"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. 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." (Philippians 4:4-9)


In these "final exhortations," Paul imparts some tremendous wisdom on experiencing joy and peace. If you look closely at the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22,23, it quickly becomes apparent that we cannot produce the fruit ourselves. Paul's letter to the Philippians mentions joy many times, including the call to "Rejoice!" We also find Paul's thoughts on finding peace -- both through prayer and godly thought, centered on "noble" things.

How may we rejoice during difficult moments? Paul makes it clear that joy comes from recognizing God's presence and trusting Him through those moments. Knowing that we are not alone, we find confidence to walk with God through troubling situations. We may rejoice in His lovingkindness and sticking with us. How could you rejoice today?

Furthermore, Paul urges "prayer and petition" and godly thoughts as sources of peace. Peace again cannot come solely from within; rather, God grants us peace as we trust in Him and thankfully welcome His presence. This peace also serves as a great witness for God's love and care for us. We find peace in anchoring our heart in trusting God. We preserve and strengthen this peace through submitting our minds to noble thoughts.

As we observe every day, this world is deeply troubled. We may rejoice in knowing that God desires and provides for our peace and joy. We experiencing these realities by turning to Him and embracing His sovereignty.

What noble thoughts could you consider today? How about the beauty of God's creation in the fall? How about the tremendous provision He has given us through friends and family?


Lord God, thank You for sending Your Son so that we might find ultimate peace with You. Bring joy and peace into our lives in increasing measure, both for our benefit and as an opportunity to show Your love to a watching world. We love You and honor You today. In Jesus's Name, amen.


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