At the end of the last Chapter in Philippians, we see Paul reviewing many of the key themes of his letter. This is what we would expect in a closing. However, one must marvel at how succinct, power-packed, and on-target this “summary” reveals itself to be. Truly it can only be breathed out by God. Extraordinarily, Paul reminds us to be unified, to disciple others, to find joy in the Lord, and to rest in His presence in prayer, in help, and in thanksgiving. The prize for faithfulness in these things is peace.

Paul again returns to a pattern he has developed within his letter...walking out these faithful actions begins with taking our thoughts captive.

What are we thinking about today? How has soaking in God’s Word, steeping in it, tasting and seeing it, and delighting in it affected our thoughts and actions? As we see and hear, are we propelled to practice what God has revealed to us? Is God’s peace with us?

Philippians 4.8-9

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Who is Paul addressing in verse 8?

+ List all the things that fill this blank… ”Whatever is _________________ think about these things.”

+ Make another list with synonyms for these words. Use another translation if it helps.

+ Think of a tangible example of each and write it down to remind you and others! For example...

“What can I think of that is true?”

“Who or what can I think of that is honorable?”

+ What should be practiced according to Paul in verse 9?

+ Who are we to imitate according to the verse? Who is he ultimately imitating?

+ What four verbs does Paul use in verse 9? What you have _____,_____,_____,_____

+ How do those four verbs apply to you and I in our own Christian walk of faith?

+ As we practice, as we act, and live out these words, who is with us?

+ What does this Name of God tell the brothers they can expect as they seek to imitate Jesus?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What thoughts do you and I need to take captive?

+ What true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, or praiseworthy thoughts can we reflect on, write, post, or weave into conversations with ourselves and others?

+ How can soaking in God’s Word help us re-write the cultural narrative that swarms and surrounds?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ How can our daily time in God’s Word help us walk and be a godly example to others?

+ How does our personal walk and witness affect other brothers and sisters in Christ?

+ How might it affect the watching world?