Philippians 4 – EasyEnglish Bible (EASY) (2024)

FAQs

What is the main point of Philippians 4? ›

Paul then transitions to a focus on rejoicing in the Lord (Philippians 4:4). Christians are not to be anxious about anything, but instead to bring prayers of all kinds to the Lord (Philippians 4:6). This does not mean a total lack of thought. Rather, it means a lack of fear or anxiety.

“Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.” Paul's advice to us is to turn our worries into prayers. Take our struggles, our desires, our wishes, our anxious thoughts to Him and surrender it all and trust that He works for our good in His timing. If you want to worry less, then you should pray more!

CSB Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.

I know the Lord Jesus is near, so I have no reason to be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let me present my requests to you. I believe in you, Father, a God who transcends all human understanding.

The words “rest” and “quietness” are at the root word of “peace” in Philippians 4:6-7, which says, “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.

At first glance, the major themes of humility, unity, and joy are clear in the letter to the Philippians. Yet, each of these themes has a common foundation: they are possible for the church solely in light of the gospel.

He doesn't want you to focus on things that are outside of your control. God wants you to trust him instead of ruminating on worrisome things all day long. God wants you to stop worrying so you can have victory in Jesus. Satan would love nothing more than to keep you in a state of anxiety, doubt, and fear.

Don't be anxious about this temporal world—and the food, clothing, and shelter associated with it. Jesus said previously, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Focusing on earthly treasures produces earthly affections. It blinds our spiritual vision and draws us away from serving God.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Instead of focusing on the lies that swirl around in our minds, this verse invites us to focus on what is true. Instead of focusing on the world's evil and immorality, we are invited to focus on what is honorable and morally excellent. Instead of injustice, we are invited to be those who seek justice and righteousness.

How do you make the Holy Spirit dwell in you? ›

In any and all circ*mstances I have learned the secret [of being content] - whether well-fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:12-13). Contentment is learned.

Final Exhortations

The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

In one of the most well-known passages from Paul on prayer, Philippians 4:6-7, we read these words: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

The apostle Paul did not write Philippians in response to a crisis, as he did with Galatians and Colossians. Instead, he wrote to express his appreciation and affection for the Philippian believers.

The first key takeaway from Philippians is to center our lives on Jesus Christ. Ruminating on the work of Christ—on the humility, obedience, and love that characterizes who Jesus is, Paul urges us to let our lives be guided by this example.

Paul tells the Philippians that even though they face persecution and danger, their lives as Christians should be consistent with the truth of God in Jesus who gave himself up in love for others. Suffering because of Jesus is a way of living out the Gospel.