Philippians 4 DEVO: Whatever!~

Chapter 4:
We’ve all been in a conversation with someone where they’ve said in sarcasm “whatever.” Well, this is Paul’s “whatever” chapter – only sarcasm is not intended!
We begin with a “cat fight” – 2 ladies not getting along – and Paul is pleading with them to do so, and even asking “loyal yokefellow” to step in and referee a bit! Christian love is to be a hallmark of how a believer lives because it shows love and leaves a great testimony of Jesus. So Euodia & Syntyche – chill! Paul’s advice? “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near…..prayer……with thanksgiving…..the peace of God.” Praying, focusing on the Lord, being thankful and taking the focus off of self is always helpful in conflict!
And here is what Paul says to focus on: “…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.” In addition, Paul says “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Contentment is another way to avoid selfish conflict!
Paul concludes by thanking them for their gifts and assuring them that God will meet THEIR needs as well!
SO WHAT?!
*Ok, who was your last fight with? Side note – Jean & I don’t fight, we have “serious fellowship.” (he, he…) Actually, sometimes it’s intense fellowship!~ Back to the question – what was your fight about? Usually it’s pretty dumb stuff, or at least, misunderstandings. Regardless, seek to work it out! I’m not sure how much I’ve done right in our marriage, but only once in 19 years have Jean & I not worked it our before we went to bed – and that time we worked it out the next day. Totally helps in keeping accounts short and thoughts from brewing “evil stew”! Don’t let the sun go down on your anger….Ephesians 4:26
*Contentment – not really a part of the American way huh?! Well, It is God’s way. What is something you could get if you wanted but that you can choose to do without this week? Maybe it’s eating out or a new computer or cell phone or you fill in the blank. How about using “whatever” money you don’t spend on that this week and investing it in the Lord?! Maybe memorize today’s “whatever passage” so you can remember it when you face circumstances?!