1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
- Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
- Spend 5 to 15 minutes in silent meditation paying attention to the breath.
- What word or phrase captures you?
- Savor this word or phrase. Stay with it. Allow it to penetrate you with gentleness.
- What peace do you notice?
- Read the text a second time.
- What message does God have for you in this text?
- Where do you notice the message?
- What peace and/or tension do you notice in the message?
- Read the text a third time and listen for a call to action from God.
- Give thanks to God for this time to rejoice in God’s gentleness and peace and for any new insights you have received.
- Share as you feel led in the reply box below.