1. Rejoice! (1-5)

Paul concludes his letter with appeals to stand firm in the Lord, be united in the Lord, and rejoice in the Lord always! He repeats the command to rejoice! The decision to rejoice is a safeguard for our souls. It helps us to be gentle to all and to be near to the Lord.

2. Guard yourselves in Christ (6-9)

Anxiety attacks us from within and robs us of joy and peace. Paul's counsel is to pray in every situation, be thankful, and present our requests to God. Then, the peace of God resides within and helps us overcome our calculations. Most importantly, this peace guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, we must meditate on what is true, noble, right, pure, love, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy, and practice good.


Application: Lord, help me to have your peace that overcomes all understanding and guard myself in Christ Jesus!
One Word: Guard myself with the peace of Christ