Philippians 4:1-9
Q.1. What were Euodia and Syntyche really like? How did Paul address them? – (Phil.4:1-3)
Paul treasured the Philippians and considered them – … my joy and crown (Phil.4:1). It may appear that Euodia and Syntyche were just troublemakers, and perhaps not even saved (Phil.4:2). However, Paul stated that these women had – shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel … whose names are in the book of life (Phil.4:3). This provides us with a strong warning that even the most committed of believers can fall into fights and factions and we must always be vigilant lest we fall.
Q.2. What should characterize the lifestyle of a believer? How should we approach God in prayer? – (Phil.4:4-7)
Paul gave us several character qualities that should be displayed: Believers should be recognisable by their joyfulness and positivity, regardless of the outward circumstances. They should show forbearance to all. They should be eagerly anticipating the Lord’s coming – for the Lord is near (Phil.4:5). Anxieties should be turned into a focus on thanksgiving, and a cry to God in prayer – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Phil.4:6). To rely on the Lord expectantly and in faith, will ensure that – the peace of God that surpasses all comprehension will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil.4:7).
Q.3. How can we win the ‘battle of the mind’? What kinds of things should we eliminate from our thinking? – (Phil.4:8-9)
Paul urged the Philippians to control their thinking and – dwell on these things (Phil.4:8). To win the battle of the mind, we should keep our thoughts dwelling only on – whatever is true (accurate), whatever is honourable (honest), whatever is right (just), whatever is pure (uncontaminated), whatever is lovely (pleasant), whatever is of good repute (positive report), and whatever is excellent (morally uplifting), and praiseworthy … (Phil.4:8). We must discipline our thinking diligently, just as many people discipline their bodies (c.f. 1 Tim.4:8). God here encourages us to reduce negative self-talk, thus winning the battle of the mind.