PHILIPPIANS

Chapter 1

    Verse 1    Written to the saints in Philippi

    Verses 2-5    greetings

    Verse 6    Looking forward to "the day of Jesus Christ."

    Verse 7    States that he in in chains (in prison), and that all believers are partakers of grace.

    Verses 9-11    Paul prayed that love would grow as the believers gained knowledge and discernment.

    Verses 12-14    Paul felt that his imprisonment had furthered the cause of the gospel - as other disciples became more bold to tell others of their faith.

    Verses 15-17    Some others preached the gospel out of envy and strife for their own ambition, but some did with love and agreed with his defense of the gospel.

    Verse 18    It doesn't matter why, but that Christ is preached, and that is a reason for rejoicing.

    Verses 19-21    Paul had faith that the Philippians prayers and the Holy Spirit would bring his deliverance, however, he wanted Christ to be magnified in him either by life or death.

    Verses 22-24    Paul's indecision if he wanted life or death.

    Verses 25-26    Paul's confidence returned and he was sure he would see the Philippians again.

    Verses 27-28    He wanted them to conduct themselves in a way that would be pleasing to Christ if he was able to return or not, and not to be afraid of the enemies of the gospel.

    Verses 29-30    For the Philippians (and all believers) are asked to suffer for the sake of Jesus Christ because of our belief in Him, as Paul did.

Chapter 2

    Verses 1-2    Paul wanted all of the Philippians to be of the same mind and spirit as he was.

    Verse 3    Not to be selfish with ambition, but to think more highly of others than themselves.

    Verse 4    Care not just for yourself, but also the interests of others.

    Verses 5-7    The example of Christ Jesus, who was equal to God, but lowered Himself to be a servant to the people.

    Verse 8    Jesus had the appearance of a man, yet humbled Himself to death, even death on a cross.

    Verses 9-11    Because Jesus gave of Himself in this way, God has exalted Him (Jesus) and His name is above every other name. At the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow whether in heaven, earth or hell. Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord — to God's glory.

    Verses 12-13    God wants you to make your decision, not from my (Paul's) presence, but all the more since I am not there. It is God who wants you to serve Him.

    Verses 14-15    Don't complain or have disputes among yourselves but show yourselves to be blameless and harmless; devoted children of God, perfect in a perverse generation. Become as lights in a darkened world.

    Verse 16    Hold forth the gospel, so that I (Paul) will not have labored in vain.

    Verse 17    If I [Paul] am giving you of my faith with sacrifice for you, I am glad for you, 

    Verse 18    and you should also be glad to be of service.

    Verse 19    Trusting in the Lord- Jesus, I am sending Timothy to you soon so he can encourage me by telling me your spiritual state.

    Verse 20    For there is no one like Timothy who cares about you.

    Verse 21    Others seek their own glory and not the things of Christ,

    Verse 22    but you know Timothy's character and how he and I have served in proclaiming the gospel.

    Verse 23    Hopefully, I will be sending him at once

    Verse 24    and I trust in the Lord that I will also come shortly.

    Verses 25-26    I considered sending you Epaphroditus, my co-worker, but he was sick. 

    Verse 27    Indeed he was sick almost to death; but God showed His mercy on Epaphroditus and myself also, so I wouldn't have sorrow upon sorrow. 

    Verse 28    Therefore, I am sending him more eagerly that you may rejoice and I will be less sorrowful.

    Verses 29-30    Receive him therefore in gladness in the Lord and hold him and other workers in esteem; because of his work for Christ he came close to death. 

Chapter 3

1/1/2004:

    Sorry, but I did not finish this in this format.  I believe the Navigators and Quiet Time Diary comments will fill in for chapters 3 and 4.

I will add my notes from journaling from this point:

The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date.

1:3-5    I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, ⁴always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, ⁵in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now.

    Friendship with other believers is really important to Christian growth. As we know each others needs, we pray for needs and participate in various church activities together - Christian fellowship and caring. (DRM 6/29/08)

1:6    For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

    Praise the Lord that He sent someone to tell me about Him. While I rarely see or hear from the person who told me about Jesus, the Lord will continue to work in me by the Holy Spirit. Hopefully I'll get better. (DRM 9/2/01)

    The dash between my birth year and my "death" year is a deception to Christians. While we have a physical birth, we also have a spiritual birth. Our spiritual lives won't die - we will always be growing to be more like Jesus - even after our physical deaths. 
    This verse refers to our spiritual life. From the day we are born in the spirit, we will continue to grow. PTL! {Praise the Lord} (DRM 4/17/05)

1:7    For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partaking of grace with me.

    This refers back to v. 6 and reminds me of different aspects of living the Christian life.
    Paul has them in his heart - because he loves them like brothers and sisters. He knows them personally and knows they have received Christ - and His grace.
    This truly is encouraging to me. (DRM 4/17/11)

1:8    For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 

    This answers the following question: {How should I feel about God's work in my life?} I should care a lot for others as this verse indicates. God wants us to forgive others, not hold grudges, and to be more like His Son Jesus Christ. (DRM 9/3/01)

1:9    And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment.

    This answers the following question: {In what ways can I show God's love?} When I became a Christian, the Holy Spirit came into me and filled me with His love. I should show this love through my kindness to others and hopefully lead some to Christ. (DRM 9/4/01)

1:11    . . . having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

    This is the third part of a three verse sentence written by Paul. I think that the point here is that believers become filled with the fruit of righteousness. I believe this is the sanctification process that takes a while to grow. The growth occurs from reading the Bible and eventually comprehending how all of the Books from the Old Testament through New Testament make a complete story. (DRM 6/30/08)

1:12    Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel,

    Paul is writing this from prison and thinks that he is making progress with the gospel.
    When we (I) have setbacks and don't understand why God isn't working things out "my way," as time goes on and we (I) reflect on those times, it makes sense as to why things didn't work out. It's hard at the time it happens, but, eventually, we see how God was working even during the difficult times. (DRM 4/18/11)

1:13    so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian (palace) guard and to everyone else. 

    Paul was a bold, spirit-filled person. He wanted everyone to know Jesus Christ as their Savior. The only way that all of the palace guards knew about him was because of his proclamation of the gospel. He must have had some prisoners near his room, as the other prisoners also knew him. 
    I pray that I too will become as bold as Paul was in sharing the Good News of Jesus. (DRM 4/18/05)

1:14    and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.

    This answers the following question: {How can I use my circumstances to advance the Gospel?} Even while Paul was in prison, he made the most of his circumstances and witnessed to the guards. By doing this, he was an encouragement to other Christians outside the prison. (DRM 9/5/01)

1:15, 16    Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will; ¹⁶the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel;

    Have you visited a church and heard a sermon that doesn't refer to Jesus - or what He has done for us? That could be like what Paul is referring to here. We should be hearing more about what Christ did for us and how to live for Him - the pastor should be concerned about our souls. (DRM 7/1/08)

1:17    . . . the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.

    Paul had taught many people about Jesus Christ and some of those taught others. Of those, some taught out of love for Christ (v. 16) and others did it for the money.
    Obviously, sharing the gospel should not be a profitable enterprise, but something done from the love of Jesus. If people donate to a ministry it's because they gain something from what is said or written. (DRM 4/19/11)

    Apparently they claimed that Paul had failed the Lord and that God put him in prison as a punishment. They thought his troubles were a sign that the hand of God was no longer on his ministry, and now the mantle had passed on to them. (Word of Life diary)

1:18    What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice, yes and I will rejoice. 

    This answers the following question: {What should be my motive for telling others of Christ?} Paul, in this verse, didn't care how the Word was proclaimed, so long as people heard of Christ. The Lord [I think] would prefer that I serve Him with pure motives out of love for Him. (DRM 9/6/01)

    Paul was in prison (v. 13) and other "brethren" (v.14) or disciples were proclaiming Jesus to the world.
    People apparently proclaimed Christ for different reasons, but Paul's statement here was that the reason didn't matter, but the message was the important part.
    Hopefully, through this web site, and other vocal ways, I am presenting the gospel to the world.
    What does the Lord want you to do? (DRM 2/3/12)

    All believers are called to share the wonderful news of the saving grace of God. "Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God" (2 Cor. 5:20). (From Our Daily Bread, 2/3/12)

1:20    according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I shall not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ shall even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 

    This answers the following question: {How will I magnify Christ in my body today?} The Lord wants ALL Christians to share His words to whoever they know. Since He was kind enough to save us, we should be BOLD in our proclamation of Him. Not easy. (DRM 9/7/01)

    Paul wondered the motives of others that were also preaching about Jesus. He felt that, for whatever reason, that it was good for Him. This verse seems a bit like a prayer that Paul would continue to be bold in his witness for Christ so long as he lived. I feel that I should also feel the same - and have Jesus show in my life. (DRM 4/19/05)

1:21, 22    For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. ²²But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose.

    [Re: 1:21]    This answers the following question: {What is my purpose for living?} My purpose in living is Christ - to have others know of Him. Sometimes it's hard to talk about Christ, then I hope they see evidence of His indwelling my life. To die will bring me to Him. (DRM 9/8/01)

    [Re: 1:21, 22]    As believers, we know that a home is awaiting us in Heaven that is described as a mansion in the Bible. Heaven sounds wonderful.
    But, like Paul, we (I) are still on earth right now. God has left us here to share the gospel with others in one of several ways. He decides when our time to move to Heaven has arrived.
    Paul wasn't sure what he would choose, between Heaven and Earth, as he knew his mission. My (our) mission is the same. Keep working for His service AND look forward to the next life => location. (DRM 1/6/12)

1:23, 24    But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; ²⁴yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

    I think everyone has at least some, "I want to do it my way," in them. I know I have too much of that! Here Paul tells us (me) that we are to think more of others than ourselves. I have found that helping others and listening more helps me to get my mind off of my own problems - which is great! (DRM 7/3/08)

1:25    And convinced of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 

    This answers the following question: {What is God's purpose in placing me where I am?} God doesn't want us to be shy about sharing our faith in Him. He wants us to grow in faith and to build up others - in church, or wherever we meet them. (DRM 9/9/01)

1:27    Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ; so that whether I come and see you or remain silent. . . 

    This answers the following question: {How should I conduct myself around those who oppose the Gospel?} The Lord wants us to "stand firm" in our commitment to Him. It will be tempting to go the other way, but with the help of the Holy Spirit and other Christians, we should stand firm in our beliefs. (DRM 9/10/01)

1:28    . . . in no way alarmed by your opponents - which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.

    This is a continuation of the v. 27 sentence.
    As believers, we are to stand firm against the opposition, which are people and spirits that come from Satan.
    When we experience this, we should be confident that we are true believers and "stand up" for what we believe. (DRM 4/20/11)

1:29    For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.

    This answers the following question: {In what ways have I experienced suffering for Christ?} Suffering [for me, rejection, physical pain and loneliness] is not something pleasant. While I understand that Christ wants us to grow in our dependence on Him, it's not always "fun." (DRM 9/11/01)

    God knew in advance that I would believe in Him, as He knows everything. The second half of this verse is harder - He also wants me to suffer for His sake. It may be the opposition that I receive to His leadings like the evangelism project, or simple negative comments about the bookmarks. Physical suffering could be coming - but I still must keep my faith and trust in Jesus. (DRM 4/20/05)

2:2    . . . make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

    This is the second half of a long, two-verse sentence.
    I might call this unification in Christ, where all believers are considered to be part of the body of Christ. We shouldn't disagree, we should love each other, be united in spirit and unified in purpose. While this isn't a perfect world, it is our mission (among many) to promote these things within the Christian body of Christ. (DRM 4/21/11)

2:4    do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

    This answers the following question: {What are some ways I can show concern for others?} Occasionally I talk to strangers. Most seem reluctant to do so. That's what we've been taught. My hope is that, as they talk to me, they can know that Christ is in me and I want them to know Him too. (DRM 9/12/01)

    Sometimes [like today] it seems that all of my busyness in life is for my own personal interests, as I know what I like to do - and want to do it. Paul writes here that we should have more compassion and do more things for others. While being submissive seems undesirable at first, it's a great way to learn new things and avoid future conflicts. God, help me to grow in this area. (DRM 4/21/05)

2:8    And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 

    This answers the following question: {What attitude do I have about myself?} Jesus should always be the example of how to live. As He was obedient to the will of the Father, I should also be obedient to His will. I pray that I may continue to grow in obedience. (DRM 9/13/01)

2:10    that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth,

    This answers the following question: {How can I keep Jesus number one in my life?} Just think - Jesus and His Father are in control of EVERYTHING, not just Heaven, but all events on earth AND in hell also! He knows all and deserves my worship as King of Kings. . . (DRM 9/14/01)

2:11    . . . and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

    This is the second half of a sentence that has to be prophetic. Certainly EVERY tongue on earth is not confessing that Jesus Christ is Lord today. In the future, both Christians and non-Christians will have to meet Jesus as their Judge {Rev. 20:11}. Then they will know that Jesus Christ is truly the Lord! (DRM 7/4/08)

2:12    So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling;

    I am not a theologian, so could explain this wrong. When we are confronted with the true gospel message, we have to understand that our eternal fate is based on this decision - that would be a cause of fear and trembling. We have free will to make this decision, but God knew what it would be before we were born. (DRM 4/22/11)

    Paul is, in effect, saying, "In light of the humility of Jesus, which caused Him to pay the price for our sin, we are to 'work out' our own salvation!" What does that mean? We are to live our salvation out - to live like we are saved! But we are not to do it in our own power; God is the One Who works in us (v. 13), and He is the One Who gives us the power to do His will. We just need to live it out. (Word of Life diary)

2:13    for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. 

    This answers the following question: {What evidence is there that God is working in my life?} The evidence is easy, Testimony Newsletter, Jesusistheanswer, but the results aren't. Sometimes I feel that my efforts are my efforts and not His. I have to depend on Him to work through me and He will produce the results in His timing. (DRM 9/15/01)

2:14, 15    Do all things without grumbling or disputing; ¹⁵so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,

    We live in a crooked and perverse world, just like Paul did. It seems that it just keeps getting more so, but I don't know what it was like nearly 2,000 years ago when this was written.
    As Christians, we are to be lights of righteousness and "above the fray." With the Holy Spirit within us, this should be easy, but we could still grumble about it if we aren't totally committed to Jesus - and showing His life (through us) to others. (DRM 11/28/11)

2:16    holding fast the word of life so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain. 

    This answers the following question: {How, as a child of God, can I become blameless and without rebuke?} Verse 14 shows that we should "do all things without grumbling or disputing," which can be very hard sometimes. As we try to grow in Christ we [I] must not dispute with others. Keep the Bible as the source of my hope. (DRM 9/16/01)

    The Word of Life refers to the Bible. We are to continue to study the Bible - the words contained in it. I came to know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior at one of Word of Life's locations in Schroon Lake, NY, and know that I didn't make the wrong decision. (DRM 4/22/05)

2:17    But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.

    I hope I understand Paul's statement correctly. He seems to regret that he has to tell the Philippians of his trials or faith walk, but also thinks that it will help to improve their faith, so is sharing his thoughts and testimony on what is happening in his life. (DRM 7/5/08)

2:19, 20    But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition. ²⁰For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. 

    I understand how Paul felt here. Now that I'm moving from Albany, I found few people who were of "kindred spirit" in this area. Timothy and Paul were close co-workers for the Lord. Perhaps someday I will find a co-worker, male or female, who also loves the Lord and wants to tell people of His love for them. (DRM 4/24/05)

2:21    For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus.

    I totally agree with this verse. Perhaps that's why I haven't found a church home at this time. I am also guilty to the question above => {How am I discipling another to share the gospel with others?} All of the [few] Christians I know aren't interested. (DRM 9/17/01)

2:22    But you know of his [Timothy's] worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father.

    Paul and Timothy worked closely together. As time progressed, Timothy was like a son to Paul.
    In this verse to the Philippian church, Paul told them to trust Timothy - and they should have trusted Paul as they knew him well.
    How I would have liked a mentor like Timothy had - I hope you will find one. (DRM 4/23/11)

2:25    But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need;

    Paul decided to send Timothy AND Epaphroditus to the church in Philippi. He (Paul) felt a need to send both of these men to the church. Apparently Epaphroditus wanted to go (v. 26), so Paul sent him also.
    God knows our desires and wants to please His children. He also wants us to encourage and teach others in the faith from our experiences. (DRM 4/24/11)

2:26    because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 

    This answers the following question: {What attribute in my life compares to Epaphroditus?} Like Epaphroditus, I long to talk to other Christians. With very few exceptions, I haven't met and had a true friendship with another Christian in 15 years. Encouragement would help me. (DRM 9/18/01)

2:27    For indeed he [Epaphroditus] was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow.

    I don't know where disease or medical conditions come from, but have no doubt that God is aware of them and can and does cure them, as He did for Epaphroditus here.
    I'm sure He can do the same for me (us) if He wants to. (DRM 7/6/08)

2:28    Therefore I have sent him all the more eagerly in order that when you see him again you may rejoice and I may be less concerned about you. 

    This answers the following question: {What qualities in Epaphroditus do I admire most? Why?} "He made it!" Apparently Epaphroditus came close to death [verse 30] and was an inspiration to the people for his faith. While I don't know what his sickness was, I admire that he never lost faith. (DRM 9/19/01)

2:29, 30    Therefore receive him in the Lord with all joy, and hold men like him in high regard; ³⁰because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was deficient in your service to me. 

    Paul sent Epaphroditus to the Philippians rather than Timothy as they needed someone immediately. These verses are an example of what some people went through to teach people the truths in the Bible. Times haven't changed and I should also expect some type of risk as I try to share Christ with others. (DRM 4/24/05)

3:1    FINALLY, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you. 

    This answers the following question: {In what ways am I rejoicing in the Lord?} In this verse, I can substitute the word "trust" for rejoice. When I trust in the Lord, I depend on Him for every part of my life and don't need to fear. THAT should cause me to rejoice! (DRM 9/20/01)

3:2    Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcisions;

    Here Paul is telling us to avoid people who don't believe in the Christian gospel. People can attack like dogs (Gal. 5:15) and have evil motives. We (I) need discernment to know who these people are - to avoid them, but also to share the gospel with people who want to truly listen. (DRM 4/25/11)

3:3    for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh,

    I think circumcision is the outward expression of the fulfilling of the Law. It can give a person false confidence in their eternal destiny. In a similar way, I know that I can't depend on my fleshly body - health - without His provision. My body and my soul are completely yielded to His desires and I just have to listen to the Holy Spirit for direction. (DRM 4/25/05)

    In verse 3, we have a great description of a Christian. There are three marks: first, a Christian is someone who worships God in the spirit, or the inner man. Second, he rejoices in Christ, and third, he has no confidence in the flesh. These three marks should be seen in the life of each person who has put his or her faith in Jesus Christ, as opposed to the outward circumcision that was being called for by these converted Jews.  (Word of Life diary)

3:6    . . . as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless.

    Here Paul is describing his life before he became a Christian. He was a Hebrew in the tribe of Benjamin (v. 5) and persecuted the new Christian church before his conversion. He thought he was going to be blameless before God.
    A lot of people feel the same today, they think if they are good, or from a good family, that they will enter Heaven, but without a change of heart and repentance from sin, there is no hope of eternity in Heaven. (DRM 7/7/08)

3:7    But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.

    This answers the following question: {Of what value is bragging about the past?} Paul mentions his past in verses 4-6, but seems to state here that they are unimportant in comparison to knowing Christ. Personally, I have been diverted in the past, but want to change that and serve Him full-time. (DRM 9/21/01)

3:8    More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I man gain Christ.

    What is the most important thing in life? If it is possessions, then what will happen at the end of life? Like Paul states here, the most important thing is to have Jesus Christ and knowing Him as Lord. My (our) mind must dwell on this more. (DRM 7/8/08)

3:9    and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, . . . 

    This answers the following question: {What values do I place upon my relationship with Christ?} Knowing and trusting in Jesus is the most important part of my faith. Without Jesus I would be a person full of fear during these times of terror. My confidence in Him has to be eternal. (DRM 9/22/01)

3:10, 11    . . . that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; ¹¹in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

    We all have hopes and desires in this life. Paul had faith (v. 9) that the work he was doing was pleasing to the Lord Jesus. He also went through sufferings similar to those of Jesus.
    Like Paul, I (we) hope that through all of our trials that we will join Jesus and Paul in resurrected life. (DRM 4/26/11)

3:13    Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it (perfection) yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead. 

    This seems like a great verse for me today - as I travel from one home to a new one. I have had many failures in sharing Christ in the past, but can now look forward to new people and opportunities. Looking forward is generally knows as optimistic - rather than regretful. May I not fail on this mission . . . (DRM 4/26/05) 

3:14    I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

    This answers the following question: {How do I look upon my past and future?} I think of my past as something that I could have done differently and thus a lesson. My future is open and of unknown length. My future should consist of telling people about Christ. (DRM 9/23/01)

3:15    Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you;

    This refers back to the previous verses (v. 9-11) where Paul desires to grow in his faith in the Lord Jesus.
    Perfection can't be achieved (v. 12) in faith, but striving toward the goal is the aim. The "attitude" in this verse refers to the striving towards complete faith in Jesus. (DRM 11/7/11)

3:17    Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.

    This answers the following question: {What areas of my life can be an example for others to follow?} I would appreciate it if others didn't use the Lord's name in vain. One particular co-worker seems to like to spice up his language. I also try to stay healthy, but that's in God's control. (DRM 9/24/01)

3:19    whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things. 

    What is the purpose of life? Non-Christians [this verse] have nothing to look forward to. They get satisfaction from eating and their motive is to make more money to buy more "toys" and bigger houses. They are living for today, and tomorrow they may die. God wants us to live for Him, to be servants and to share His love with the lost. He gives us each a special task and my job is to do it. (DRM 4/27/05)

3:20    For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;

    If I wasn't a Christian, I wouldn't be eager to see Jesus and the setting up of His Kingdom. Just the anticipation of seeing Him and doing things for Him is evidence that His Holy Spirit lives in me - which is assurance of salvation. (DRM 7/9/08)

3:21    . . . who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.

    I doubt many people on earth are satisfied with their current bodies - especially as we (I) grow older. This verse gives us hope for a new, glorified body in the future.
    While meeting Jesus and loved ones is the first thing I want to do, I'm also looking forward to this new body. (DRM 4/27/11)

4:1    Therefore, my beloved children whom I long to see, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. 

    This answers the following question: {How am I helping those who are ministering for the Lord?} Support seems to be my one word answer to this question. Prayer support, financial support, encouragement and personal kindness all come to mind. I'm not doing very well. (DRM 9/25/01)

4:2    I urge Euodia and I urge Syntche to live in harmony in the Lord. 

    Christians and non-Christians have personality conflicts at times. These two women [verse 3] apparently had a conflict and Paul was praying for their resolution. I know that I've also had differences of opinion with other Christians, but it generally only lasts 15 minutes - because I know that the Lord Jesus will make all things clear when He returns. We should all be working together for His glory. (DRM 4/28/05)

4:4, 5    Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! ⁵Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.

    God is always with us, thus there is no reason to fear (v. 6). This should be a good reason to rejoice and to be gentle and compassionate to others in need.
    Sometimes I wish this would stay in my brain permanently! (DRM 7/10/08)

4:6    Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

    This answers the following question: {What would make my prayers and attitudes more godly?} Submissiveness would help! I have to remember that God is in control. Little that I can do can change many situations. Let God "run the show." I am to do His will. (DRM 9/26/01)

4:7    And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

    This goes with verse six - and is the result of NOT being anxious and praying to the Lord.
    Anxiety has bothered me for years. Of course these two verses are true. When I (you) pray to the Lord Jesus about what fear you have, there is a peace that comes - as you (I) leave the matter in His hands. (DRM 4/28/11)

4:8    Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

    Think good thoughts, not evil thoughts. God=Jesus wants us to love one another, not to attack or criticize others. We are to see the good in others and encourage/praise them if given the opportunity.
    I know I need to follow this much more than I currently do. (DRM 4/29/11)

    Put verse 8 on your television and computer. Whenever you see something that does not match that list, turn it off! Also, ask God to help you be content with whatever you have. Don't live to get more things. Live to know God better. (Word of Life diary)

4:9    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.

    After all that I have read and heard during the past 50 weeks, I still have doubts sometimes if I am indeed doing God's will for my life. I should not be just reading, but practicing what I read and keeping the Lord in my mind and heart at all times - no matter what the current difficulties are. (DRM 1/11/87)

    I need a Christian example. In this verse Paul writes that he could be an example of how to live our faith. While earthly examples are great, like Paul and Moses and D. L. Moody and Billy Graham; I think the ultimate example and Leader should be Jesus Christ. (DRM 4/29/05)

4:10    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.

    How would Paul know their previous unprayerful state? The only One who knows this is the Lord (Holy Spirit). Perhaps it was Paul's perception?
    The important part was that the church in Philippi was praying for Paul at the time of this letter and he (Paul) was thankful for their concern.
    We all should pray for others - especially when we know of a special health or other concern that God can act on. (DRM 12/12/11)

4:11    Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.

    This answers the following question: {What is necessary for me to show contentment in my circumstances?} Verse 13 shows Paul's dependence on God. When I depend on God for my needs, I should be content if He gives me a little or a lot, because He truly knows what I need. (DRM 9/27/01)

4:13    I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

    We are back to dependence on the Lord Jesus for EVERYTHING. He is our Provider - and wants us to love and serve Him.
    As I start each morning, I try to remember to thank Him for another day, and the strength to do something productive to advance His Kingdom. (DRM 7/11/08)

4:16    for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.

    This answers the following question: {In what ways can I further the cause of missions?} In some cases, prayer is not enough. Missionaries who are dedicated to God need provisions. While money is the most useful, sometimes other needs [like letters] need to be fulfilled. (DRM 9/28/01)

4:17    Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.

    Paul needed financial help and probably prayer support. He knew that God blesses people who give to His purposes, thus wrote this verse.
    This is a good reminder that helping others really helps them and us also. (DRM 4/30/11)

4:18    But I have received everything in full, and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. 

    God will supply all of my needs. Since He can do anything, His provision may be different than my expectations. Like Paul, I should accept the help of other believers - which I especially appreciate at this time in my life. (DRM 4/30/05)

4:19    And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

    This answers the following question: {In what ways has God supplied my needs?} God has provided me with an income and a home and food all of my life. Of course my main example was in Sept. 1990 when I quit my job and He worked out all the details then. Praise the Lord! (DRM 9/29/01)

4:20    Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.