It is quite amazing to listen to Christians who know so many things through Scripture and faith, but their vocabulary, conversations, and daily living belie a different belief system that causes struggle.
Case in point: So many times it is difficult to see a difference in the way a Christian and non-Christian speaks of worry or anxiety. Both seem to vocalize things the same way.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
In a similar vein, Christians seem to struggle with rejoicing always and giving thanks in all circumstances.
And how many times do we, as Christians, struggle with contentment in the same way as unbelievers?
It’s really quite shameful. It’s as if we don’t really know the Scriptures (or have trouble believing them).
This, even though, we know what God says in passages like today’s Scriptures (Philippians 4:4-13), and we have seen Him be faithful throughout our lives and all of history!
God’s track record is perfect!
And yet, we doubt. And yet, we do not rejoice. And yet, we are anxious. And yet, we are not content.
Before we have kids, Jen and I drive down to the Florida keys for a couple of days. People will tell you that being there (and certainly living there) is a different state of mind.
Indeed it is!
Worries and cares seem to drift away. In Key West, people stop and gather every evening to watch the amazing sunset. The beauty of God’s creation seems to melt away all other concerns for a bit.
I wonder, what is – or should be – the “state of mind” for the Christian?
When I look at today’s reading, I wonder.
It’s not like there are no cares or concerns for the Christian. After all, we still live in this world with all it’s fallen nature that affects us, too. St. Paul in our text even says that he knows “how to be brought low, and…how to abound” (Philippians 4:12).
But he also share that he has “learned the secret of facing” the ups and downs – Jesus Christ, who strengthens him!
Jesus is our strength and solution as well. Do we have the state of mind – the faith – to trust Him completely and in all circumstances? Do we look to Him and know He has, is, and will provide all our needs, so there is only reason for rejoicing and none for worry? Can we look to the Son-set and let our cares melt away because nothing matters but Him?
Christ is the One who strengthens you and me. Through faith in Him we have all we need – in this life and the one to come. There is nothing that is going on in your life or mine that He has not already answered, before the issue was even on our mind.
That is reason to “rejoice always” (Philippians 4:4)!
Thank You, Lord!
“Gracious and providential Lord; thank You for providing all we need every day, so that whether we are in want or abundance we look to You, trust You, and rejoice in You in everything. Grant us through Your Spirit to have a “state of mind” to keep this state in all circumstances, because You are faithful – always! In Jesus’ name, amen!”
Scripture
- Philippians 3:4b-14
- Psalm 80:7-19 (responsory)
