Personal Appeals and Encouragement

Philippians 4

Therefore, my beloved siblings whom I long for, my joy and crown, y’all stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.

I urge Euodia, and I urge Syntyche, to think the same way in the Lord. Yes, true partner, I ask you to help these women who have struggle together with me in the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Y’all rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, “Rejoice y’all!” Let y’all’s gentleness be known to all humans. The Lord is near. Y’all, don’t be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your* requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard y’all’s hearts and thoughts in Christ Jesus.

Finally, siblings, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is virtuous or praiseworthy, y’all should contemplate such things. Whatever y’all learned and received, and whatever y’all heard and saw in me–you* are do those things, and the God of peace will be with y’all.

God’s Provision

But I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now y’all have expressed your* concern for me. Indeed, y’all were concerned, but had no opportunity. Not that I speak because am in need, for I have learned to be content in any circumstance. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret whether filled or hungry, abounding or needy. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. However y’all did well to share with me in my oppression. All y’all Philippians already know that in the early days of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except y’all. For even when I was in Thessalonica, more than once, y’all sent something for my needs. It’s not that I seek for a gift—I seek for the fruit that increases y’all’s account. But I have received everything, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what y’all sent. It is a sweet-smelling fragrance, an acceptable and pleasing sacrifice to God.

My God will supply every one of y’all’s needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory for ever and forever! Amen.

Closing

Y’all greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The siblings who are with me greet y’all. All the saints greet y’all, especially those who are of Caesar’s household.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with y’all all. Amen.