Philippians 4:2-9

Read through Philippians 4:2-9. As you read, jot down any questions you have or any details that stand out.

A Closer Look:
Observation #1: There are two women mentioned here – Euodia and Syntyche. Who are they?

• All we know about these two women were that they were part of the Church at Philippi and that they were arguing with each other.
• Here, Paul names a specific instance of how disagreement and arguing show up in the Philippian church, and he urges them to work things out (“live in unity”).

Observation #2: Paul addresses our prayer lives.

• The word worry means “to be pulled in different directions.” It also gives us the idea of “being strangled.”
• Instead of worrying about something, Paul encourages the Philippians (and us!) to pray about it instead. This passage implies three kinds of prayer: (1) general praying – adoring and worshiping God, (2) supplication – sharing our needs with God, and (3) appreciation – giving thanks to God.
• If we “do this”, we are promised God’s peace, “which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand.”

Observation #3: Paul addresses our thought lives.

• What goes on in our minds influences how we feel and how we act. For example, if I think that my teacher is being unfair to me, I’m going to resent her and be rude to her. Everything she does will be tainted by my belief that she is being unfair, even if she isn’t.
• Paul knows the power of our thoughts. That’s why he encourages the Philippians to “fix their thoughts” on true and honorable things, things that are pure and right.
• By thinking about these things, the behavior of the Philippians would better reflect that of a “citizen of heaven.”

Read through Philippians 4:2-9 again.

Questions:

1. How do you think Euodia and Syntyche felt when they were “called out” and mentioned by name in Paul’s letter?
2. Are you a part of any argument or disagreement that is causing division?
3. How does worry affect you? Do you lose sleep? have an upset stomach? get really quiet?
4. How are you behaving today? What thoughts are driving that behavior?
5. What can we learn about God from this passage?

Challenge: This week, try to pray using Philippians 4:6 as a guide – adoration/worship, supplication, appreciation. If you don’t know what to ask for, return to the prayer of Philippians 1:9-11 and ask for love, knowledge, wisdom, character, and the fruit of the Spirit.