Philippians 4 - The Secure Mind

The Secure MindPhilippians 4 Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today we begin our study of the fourth and final chapter ofPaul's wonderful letter to the Philippians. As we begin this last chapter, I'dlike to remind you of the great theme that has run throughout this book.Philippians is often called "The Epistle of Joy." In these four shortchapters, Paul mentions joy or rejoicing at least sixteen times. What isamazing is that he wrote this letter while he was under house arrest in Rome,chained to a Roman soldier and awaiting trial before Caesar. Howcould Paul have such joy in the midst of such difficult circumstances? Theanswer is found in having the mind of Christ. In Philippians 2:5 Paul tells us,"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Aswe have walked through this letter together, we have discovered that eachchapter reveals another aspect of the mind of Christ that produces a joyfulheart. Inchapter one, we learned about the single mind. Paul's heart and life werecentered on one great purpose—to know Christ and make Him known through theGospel. Whether in prison or free, whether living or dying, his passion neverchanged. That is why he could say, "For to me to live is Christ, and todie is gain." A joyful heart begins with a single mind that is fixedon Jesus Christ and His Gospel. Then,in chapter two, we learned about the submissive mind. Paul pointed us to thegreatest example of humility the world has ever seen—the Lord Jesus Christ, whohumbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. ThenPaul gave us three living examples of that same servant spirit: himself,Timothy, and Epaphroditus. They each considered others before themselves andwillingly sacrificed for the sake of Christ. A joyful heart is found in humbleservice. Inchapter three, we discovered the spiritual mind. Paul reminded us to place noconfidence in the flesh—not in our achievements, our religion, or our ownrighteousness. Instead, we are to count all things but loss for the excellencyof the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord. Like Paul, we should have one greatdesire: "That I may know him." The spiritual mind is always growing,always pressing forward, and always pursuing a deeper relationship with JesusChrist. Nowwe come to chapter four, where we will discover the secure mind. This chapterteaches us how to stand fast in the Lord when life becomes difficult. Itteaches us to rejoice in the Lord always, to bring every care to God in prayer,and to experience "the peace of God, which passes allunderstanding." It teaches us to discipline our thoughts by thinkingon things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. Itteaches us the secret of contentment in every circumstance. Andit brings us to two of the most beloved promises in all of Scripture. In verse13 Paul declares, "I can do all things through Christ which strengthensme." Then, in verse 19, he assures us, "But my God shallsupply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Whatwonderful promises! As we study this final chapter together, I pray that Godwill give each of us a secure mind—a mind that stands firm in Christ, rejoicesin every circumstance, prays about everything, thinks on the right things,rests in God's peace, and trusts completely in His unfailing provision. Myfriend, that kind of mind produces a joyful heart. Let'spray. Heavenly Father, thank You for the wonderful truths You have taught usthroughout the book of Philippians. As we begin this final chapter, help us todevelop a secure mind that is anchored in Christ. Teach us to rejoice always,to pray about everything, to think on those things that honor You, and to trustYou completely for every need. May we truly experience the peace and joy thatonly You can give. In Jesus' precious name we pray. Amen. Godbless and may you have a wonderful wonderful day!