Sunday, July 13, 2014

Learning to be more like Jesus

In Philippians, Paul tells us how to be more like Jesus and be a true follower of Christ in any circumstance.  Paul sounds so dedicated and joyful about the Phililppians in these four chapters.  However, he endured torture and many difficult times while he built the church there.  He chooses to focus on the good memories and not the bad.  He chooses to encourage instead of give up on these people.  He is a true follower despite hisbackground and history with these people.  

Philipians 4:13 says we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.  Therefore, we too, can become followers of Christ despite our background and history.  He goes on to tell us we should always be rejoicing in all The Lord does for us and let our gentle spirit be evident to others around us.  We shouldn't stress ourselves about anything but pray about each situation so we can release God to control our hearts, minds, and situation.  Read the following:

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV)

Paul goes on in this fourth chapter of Phillipians how to act as Christians:

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9 NIV)

What an awesome promise of peace if we just practice to be followers.