You stay true to the Lord by keeping your focus on Jesus, no matter what your circumstances are. In Philippians 4, Paul gives a simple prescription: choose joy, pray about everything with thanksgiving, fix your thoughts on what is true, and pursue peace with others. Paul learned to be content in every situation because Jesus gave him strength. We can do the same.
It’s Easy to Drift
Throughout this series, we’ve seen that a Jesus-centered life means knowing Jesus (Lesson 1), following his example (Lesson 2), and letting him define our worth (Lesson 3). Paul closes his letter with this charge.
Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Staying the course isn’t easy. When we’re on a spiritual high, it’s easy to be all in. But over time, distractions creep in: a relationship that pulls us away, the pursuit of money, a packed sports schedule, or a broken relationship that leaves us bitter. Before we know it, Jesus has slipped out of first place.
Be Content in Every Circumstance
Paul didn’t let circumstances dictate the quality of his faith.
Philippians 4:11-13 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Notice that Paul says he learned to be content. Contentment doesn’t come naturally. It grows as we depend on Jesus for strength in every season, whether we have plenty or little.
Paul’s Prescription for a Jesus-Centered Life
Paul gives practical steps for staying true to the Lord.
Philippians 4:4-7 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.
First, choose joy. Paul says it twice: rejoice! Joy is a choice we make because the Lord is near. Second, pray about everything with thanksgiving. When anxiety rises, bring it to God and thank him for what he has already done. Gratitude changes our perspective, and God promises his peace in return. For more help, see our resources on anxiety.
Philippians 4:8-9 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.
Third, guard your thoughts. What we dwell on shapes how we feel and act. When negative or untrue thoughts creep in, replace them with what is true, good, and life-giving.
Pursue Peace with Others
Paul also addressed a conflict between two women who served in the church.
Philippians 4:2-3 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Euodia and Syntyche were faithful gospel workers, but their disagreement was threatening the unity of the church. Paul asked them to make peace and asked others to help. Conflict can divide families, friendships, and churches. Staying true to the Lord means pursuing peace whenever possible (Romans 12:18).
The Takeaway
Life will throw us curveballs, but we can stay true to the Lord by keeping our focus on Jesus. Choose joy, pray with thanksgiving, fix your thoughts on what is true, and pursue peace with others. When Jesus is at the center of your life, he gives you strength to face anything with joy.
