Faith Focus

Greetings friends,
I ask that as we begin our spiritual journey together we begin to take some time daily (if you are not already) to read the Scripture and pray. I thought it would be beneficial for us to focus on the same passage of Scripture for the week. This week, we will focus on Sunday’s texts (See below). If you were not present in worship on Sunday and have not yet watched it, I encourage you to do so. The Scripture used on Sunday was Philippians 4:4-9, 12-13. This epistle, or letter, was written by the Apostel Paul (1:1) to the church at Phillipi, which was the first church founded in Europe. Leading up to the church’s establishment, Paul was on his second missionary journey and had received a vision of a man saying “Come over into Macedonia, and help us” (Acts 16:9). This was the region where Philippi was located, a Roman colony. There was no synagogue there, indicating there were fewer than ten Jewish men who lived there. It was in Philippi that Lydia, a Gentile God-fearer, had come to Christ, and then she and her whole household were baptized. Not long after, the jailer that had held Paul and Silas in prison accepted Christ and was saved- and then he and his whole household were baptized (stories found in Acts 16:11-40). In this way, the church in Philippi was founded by the Apostle Paul on this missionary journey. The church was then primarily made up of Gentiles, those who had not practiced the Mosaic Law, and most would not have been very familiar with Scripture. The sociological and historical situation was a continuing conflict between the Roman society and the culture and the church which led to persecution. It is interesting to note as we go through this Scripture that Paul wrote it while he was in prison (1:7, 13, 17). The letter Paul writes is personal, expressing love, gratitude, and care. *The entire book is only a few pages long, and I encourage you to take a few minutes and read it all.
Format-this is a repeat from every week, and will be consistently present for anyone new and as a reminder for all. It is listed at the bottom for review and for anyone who is new to this exercise. Please remember that it is a suggestion. There is no pressure to do it in the format suggested, to do everything on the days that are listed, or to even answer all the questions. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. If one question takes up the time because you are moved in your spirit, then stay with it. The idea of this is to spend some intentional time with the Scriptures, in the presence of God, and in prayer and reflection- in whatever way that works for you!
Scripture: Philippians 4:4-9, 12-13 (NIV)
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 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. 9 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.
12 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. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Other Scriptures referenced:
2 Corinthians 1:8- We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.

Romans 5:3-5- Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
DAILY QUIET TIME WITH GOD:
Monday: v.4 “Rejoice in the Lord always”- the word translated here as “rejoice” is xaírō, transliterated chairó in the original Greek. “(from the root xar-, “favorably disposed, leaning towards” and cognate with 5485 /xáris, “grace”) – properly, to delight in God’s grace (“rejoice”) – literally, to experience God’s grace (favor), be conscious (glad) for His grace.” (biblehub.com). So, to “rejoice” is much more than being happy or even celebrating. It’s formed from a deep gratitude for the grace that we have been given by God. So often, we think about rejoicing as something we do in response to something that simply makes us happy- something material or a circumstance, or something turns out well, etc., regardless if it has anything to do with God. Imagine that what Paul is urging us to do is rejoice- truly rejoice- to be in a continual conscious state of gladness in response to God’s grace. Consider God’s grace, by which we have life, are loved, were saved, have God’s abiding presence within us, spiritual gifts, eternal life, and more. Imagine what being in a state of true rejoicing would be- what would it look like, feel like, live like? Describe times when you experience(d) this- what was going on that brought the awareness that led to rejoicing? As Christians, we often regard rejoicing as a part of worship. What is it about worship that leads to or facilitates rejoicing for you? Rejoice in God’s presence, giving thanks.
“In the Lord’- a reminder that joy comes from being “in” the Lord- in God’s family, presence, and will.
“Always”- is a strong command, and can sometimes feel difficult to do. But “always” implies a knowing that God is in control and being confident in that. Would you say that you rejoice in the Lord “always”? If so, describe what that feels like and how you got to the point where you could. If not, what would you say are some of the reasons, circumstances, or situations that have prevented it? How do you think you could grow in confidence and trust in God that “always” was true for you?
“I will say it again: Rejoice!”- from a literary perspective, any time something in Scripture is repeated it is to draw attention to it- this is important! In spite of circumstances, with conflict and disunity in the church, the church being persecuted, and Paul being in prison, he highlights the importance of rejoicing in the Lord always. Why do you think it is considered to be so important? What impact would it have on your mind, heart, life, relationships, situations, etc.?
Tuesday: v. 5 “Let your gentleness be evident to all”- the word “gentleness” is epieikés in in the original Greek, and is more than being mild; it’s being forbearing, fair, reasonable, and moderate. Basically, keeping an attitude of being level, patient, and “equitable… in the sense of truly fair by relaxing overly strict standard in order to keep the ‘spirit of the law’” (biblehub.com) We might consider it as being respectful, responding instead of reacting, listening to others fully, and treating everyone with the same understanding and care. This attitude and action is to be evident to all. This statement immediately follows the command to rejoice always. How do you think the two statements connect- what is Paul trying to say?
In context, this entire passage follows the address about Euodia and Syntyche, two women in the church that were at odds with one another. Even in churches there are disagreements. People have different ways of doing things, different opinions, etc. How would Paul’s urging for “gentleness” impact relationships within our faith family when there is disunity and disagreement? Consider if there is anyone you need to exhibit “gentleness” toward that perhaps you have not in the past. What would facilitate that, and what do you believe the outcome would be? Pray about it, and ask God how you can be a change-agent for “gentleness” within our church and in the rest of your life. Pay attention. If God brings a certain person or situation to mind, ask God for direction on how and when to move forward. If you are harboring negative feelings about it, ask God to remove that. Ask God for opportunity to bring healing in situations that are conflicted. Perhaps “gentleness” could be to think grace toward others, especially in light of the grace you have received.
“The Lord is near”- or “at hand,” eggus in the Greek, which can mean that the Lord is physically near and it could also mean eschatologically imminent (theology word- eschatology is about the end of the world- the Second Coming of Christ). It could be that Paul is saying that the nearness of the Lord with them is what will inspire and give strength to do what he has just commanded. It could also mean that the Lord may return at any time, and the time is now to live as Christ would have it. Or both. I personally prefer both. What are your thoughts and why? What does that mean for you and any situation or people you may be dealing with now? How has it been lived out in your past? How would you like for it to be lived out in your future? Many will say that the greatest incentive for holy living is the imminent return of Jesus Christ, but there are many other reasons as well. What would you say? Take some time in prayer, reflecting on all that God has spoken as you responded to the reading today. Go further, dig deeper. Ask God the hard questions, and ask God for inspiration and strength to do what God is asking. Give thanks for God’s abiding presence, for his continual love and care, knowing that God is always seeking the best for you.
Wednesday: v.6 “Do not be anxious about anything”- “anxious” is merimnáō in the Greek, meaning “a part, as opposed to the whole,” to be “drawn in opposite directions,” to “go to pieces” because pulled apart in different directions (biblehub.com). Anxiety, worry, stress- it can feel chaotic, scattered, and can wreak havoc in people’s lives. Yet I believe we have all experienced it at one time or another. Anxiety is a form of fear. It’s often an apprehension or worry about what may happen or not happen- a fear in and about uncertainty. Being uncertain can give a sense of insecurity, leading to anxiety. “Do not be anxious” is stated as a command. We may wonder- if it’s a thought and feeling, especially based on real circumstances, how it could possibly be a command? Yet it is. Why would there be such a strong command against it? Consider the effects anxiety has on our body, mind, relationships with others, etc. What does having anxiety say about what we are thinking and feeling about God? What is God desiring for us instead of anxiety? Use 1 John 4:18-19 for reflection, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.” Or Jesus giving the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6:25-34, stating over and over “Do not worry.” I don’t believe the command is something where God is threatening judgement. Rather we are given a command to lead us into what is best. Remember that God loves us and wants good for us.
“But in every situation”- “Every situation,” not just the really big ones, the hard to handle ones, etc. Too often we can think that God has no interest in “the little stuff.” But God wants to be involved in every situation in our lives.
“By prayer”- we come to God, commune with God, converse with God. Prayer is not only speaking to God it’s also listening to God. It’s through prayer that we know God’s will for our lives, know our next steps, and know how God wants to transform us. Prayer is essential to our lives as believers. The word “prayer” here is proseuché in the Greek, means prayer, but with a special emphasis on prayer as an act of worship. How would you describe prayer as an act of worship. Take some time now to pray in that way!
“And petition”- is deésis in Greek, and sometimes translated as “supplication.” It’s the form of prayer that is a heart-felt asking, praying for a specific, felt need, that is deeply personal and urgent (biblehub.com). Don’t hold back. Let God know your concerns, needs- everything! Lay it all at God’s throne of grace. Consider James 4:2b, “You do not have because you do not ask God.” and Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and he door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
“With thanksgiving”- as opposed to with whining or complaining. Gratitude for what God has already done, and gratitude for what God will do, trusting in God.
“Present your requests to God”- God already knows our needs before we even pray, but God wants us to participate in the process, and will often wait for us before responding to our needs.
So the response God seeks instead of anxiety is “prayer and petition with thanksgiving!” Work your way through that with something you are dealing with. Get into God’s presence with thanksgiving, and pray for your needs, being open and honest. How does asking God for your needs while in a state of thanksgiving change the way you respond in prayer.
Thursday: v.7 “And the peace of of God”- in regards to the previous statement- cause and effect. IF we come to God in prayer, and with thanksgiving petition for what we need, then the “peace of God” will come. “Peace” in the Greek is eiréné, (in the Old Testament “Shalom”) and its fuller meaning is “wholeness,” i.e. when all essential parts are joined together” (biblehub.com). As was referred to on Wednesday, “anxiety” is “a part, as opposed to the whole,” to be “drawn in opposite directions,” to “go to pieces” because pulled apart in different directions (biblehub.com), and the opposite of that is peace- to take the pieces and put them together, making it whole. It can be an internal experience of being made whole through God. Imagine how God does that in our lives. Have you ever experienced that- where you come to God full of anxiety and through prayer are filled with peace? If so, how would you describe how it felt, how you went through it, and how you moved forward in your situation from it? If not, seek after it. Make sure to go to God whenever you begin to feel the internal broken pieces of anxiety and allow God to bring healing and make you whole.
“Which transcends all understanding”- truly! In spite of, and in the face of, anything that causes us to feel like there is no way, and we may even be convinced that peace will never come, God steps into our brokenness and brings peace- it doesn’t make logical sense, but it’s true. It doesn’t make physical sense, but it is experienced. The peace we receive from God transcends any understanding we may try to have on our own, but God is faithful to care for us and give us his peace. Supernatural peace. Have you ever experienced God’s peace when, based on the circumstances, most would be “freaking out”- and you may have even been surprised by it yourself? Those stories are wonderful for evangelism. Share those stories as God provides opportunities, because there are many who do not know Jesus, and are “in pieces,” but if they come to God and trust in him, God will make them whole.
“Will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”- “guard” is a military term- to defend and protect. The word “heart” in the Bible is imagery for the center of our moral and spiritual desire. This is where character is determined and developed. Our mind is where the battle against the enemy begins. The mind informs the heart. To guard the heart and mind would be to protect with God’s peace against falling into the lies and attacks of the enemy that seek to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10). What is it about having God’s peace, the “peace that passeth understanding,” that would guard against the enemy?
Remember, when we come to God, and we put all of our problems and concerns into the hands of the Lord, we remove ourselves from the loop of anxiety, the cycle of fear. We find that we no longer worry as we did, growing more and more in the peace of Christ. Sometimes this happens immediately. Other times it may take longer, and our perseverance, strength, and faith are built as we continue to come to God in prayer. Take time now, and daily, to lift up any concerns, worries, fears, to the Lord. Ask God to put a hedge of protection around your heart and mind. Humbly submit to God’s will, laying it all before him, and leave it there, trusting in God.
Friday: v.8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, think about such things”- what we think matters. A lot. Our thoughts dictate our feelings, emotions, reactions, and actions. Having an unhealthy and ungodly thought life will have negative repercussions throughout our entire life, and will definitely steal our peace. Paul is going to name some things to think about that edify, lift up, and are beneficial to ourselves and others.
“Whatever is true”- whatever is factually correct, is reality, and is right. God’s Word is true! The contrary is, do not think about and focus upon things that are false- lies of the enemy, lies of the culture and society that contradict God’s Word, the false masks we wear, etc. Meditate upon whatever is true! “Whatever is noble”- or honorable, worthy. As opposed to thinking about and focusing on whatever is base, evil, degrading, etc. “whatever is right”- just, fair, as opposed to what is unequal, and causing division and disunity. “Whatever is pure”- holy, sacred, without moral defect. Think about the things that are Godly, things that point to God, are clean and wholesome, as opposed to thinking about things that are unholy and immoral. “Whatever is lovely”- pleasing, agreeable, as opposed to the things that bring angst and division or things that are ugly and wretched. “Whatever is admirable”- reputable, laudable, as opposed to what is unimportant or shameful. “If anything is “Excellent”- goodness, virtue as opposed to crude or repulsive. “Or praiseworthy”- worthy enough to be praised. The good stuff, the Godly stuff- focus on that. What do you think focusing on the good, Godly stuff in life would do to your heart and mind? Why would this be what God wants? Consider this list in regards to people, since Paul just named two women who were in conflict. What if we applied this list to the way we looked at and thought about others. Look for the good and Godly within others, especially those you may have disagreement with. How do you think that practice would change the dynamic, the relationship, etc. How would it shift our attitude toward a more Godly respond with others, especially those we disagree with? Why would God want that for us as brothers and sisters in Christ?
It says of all these, “whatever is”- search for all those things, in any and every form and everywhere in the world. Seek them out, and really dwell upon those in your mind as you “think about such things.” We need to make it a practice to not be focused on all the things that are the opposite of what is listed. It can be difficult, because the opposite is everywhere. But what God wants us focused on is there, though it may seem to be small, or hidden, or infrequent. The more we search the more we will find. And when we find, and we dwell, and we allow those good thoughts to permeate our heart and mind, the more treasure in God we will find.
As you go through your day, continue to increase awareness of all that God gives, all the good stuff of life. Notice when you begin to dwell on something that’s the opposite- what prompted it, how long did you hold it, and why. Begin a practice of sorting thoughts that come into your mind- the ones that God would have you focus on and dwell in, the ones to give to God in prayer and petition, and the ones from the enemy that need to be tossed out. Take some time to reflect on some of the true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, praiseworthy things in your life and in prayer dwell upon them, thanking God for giving and being.
Saturday: v.9 “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me- put into practice”- note that the Apostle Paul is so confident of his faith and the way he taught and modeled it with his life that he sets himself as an example. He knew, expected, that God would work through him to touch the lives of the people he was there to minister to. This is something for us all to strive for, understanding that those who are unbelievers and those who are weak in their faith, are certainly watching and listening, whether we intend it or not. Everything we say and do matters- to God and others. We won’t be perfect, but we will work toward it, strive for it, as Wesley put it, we are “Moving on to perfection.” When we do slip and fall we need to handle that the way Christ would have it- confession, repentance, reconciliation. Begin to become aware of the impact you are having on the lives of those around you. Pray for the strength, conviction, and awareness to live into your call, setting an example, and mentoring others in the faith.
“And the God of peace will be with you”- if we do what what Paul describes, and what has been taught and modeled by mature Christians in our lives, we will be filled with the presence of God. The God of peace, who is peace and gives peace, will dwell in our midst- in our heart, mind, and life. Peace within and peace with others.
V.12 “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty”- Paul is saying that these principles and practices apply no matter what your situation may be. In his experiences of being “in need”- he had been brutally beaten, imprisoned, etc. and “to have plenty”- he had been a wealthy, elite Pharisee, and after becoming a Christian he had been offered much hospitality from Christian brothers and sisters who cared for him. He worked, he ministered, and he also suffered. Paul is taking away the excuses that we all try to use- “but you don’t know MY situation…” We might feel as if our particular situation is too difficult for us to live as the Scripture wants us to, but Paul reassures us that it doesn’t matter what is going on in our life, we are to practice all of this, and it will gives us peace and so much more.
“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”- through practice, through continual striving in each and every moment, we learn. “Content” does not mean happy. In the Greek it is autarkés, which also means satisfied. Moreso, a “sufficiency within,’ a positive self-sufficiency, an inward adequacy, that comes through Christ (biblehub.com). Paul has learned it, knows it, and relies on it- God-sufficiency. We too, are to be God-sufficient! In any and every situation- no matter what.
V.13 “I can do all this through him [Christ] who gives me strength”- Another one of my favorite verses, but I have it memorized as “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It means that we can face any and all circumstances because we have the strength of Christ within us. We rely on Christ’s empowering grace above it all- our limitations, weaknesses, fears- Christ gives the power to go through it. Paul describes in 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 that he had been going through extremely difficult trials and when he cried out to God about it. God’s response was “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul didn’t take that as a dismissal but rather a reason to boast. In the midst of his suffering, the grace of Christ was there, strengthening any weaknesses he may have had. Through Christ we make it through, able to endure whatever may come. Through it, if we had been relying on and depending upon Christ, we grow. And after, we are more faithful, confident, grace-filled and peace-filled than we were before. Think back on some of the suffering and trials in your life, and explore in prayer with God where the strengthening grace of Christ had empowered and led you though. Ask God to reveal his presence in the memories. Take time, listening and watching for what God brings forward. Hold onto that, cherish it, rely on it, give thanks about it. I encourage you to share with others who may be facing challenges and difficulties of any kind the good news of Christ!
Other items:

Responsive Reading
Leader: Holy Lord, we humbly come to You
People: Help us let go of our guilt and disappointments.
Leader: Enable us to forgive and heal from the things from the past,
People: To press forward, knowing our hope is in You.
Leader: Fill us to overflowing with Your peace,
People: Remind us of Your goodness in times of distress
Leader: Enable us to grow through courage and surrender,
People: Dwell within us and guide us, no matter what may be,
All: And center us in the joy of our salvation through Jesus Christ our Savior.

Unison Prayer – Wesley Covenant Prayer
I am no longer my own, but thine.
Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt.
Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee,
exalted for thee or brought low for thee.
Let me be full, let me be empty.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and heartily yield all things
to thy pleasure and disposal.
And now, O glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it.
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
let it be ratified in heaven. Amen.

Song Lyrics:

Take My Life, and Let it Be UMH #399 v.1,3
1. Take my life, and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my hands, and let them move
at the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet, and let them be
swift and beautiful for thee.

3. Take my will, and make it thine;
it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is thine own;
it shall be thy royal throne.
Take my love, my Lord, I pour
at thy feet its treasure-store.
Take myself, and I will be
ever, only, all for thee.

I Surrender All UMH #354 v.1,3,4
1. All to Jesus I surrender;
all to him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust him,
in his presence daily live.

Refrain:
I surrender all, I surrender all,
all to thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.

3. All to Jesus I surrender;
make me, Savior, wholly thine;
fill me with thy love and power;
truly know that thou art mine.
(Refrain)

4. All to Jesus I surrender;
Lord, I give myself to thee;
fill me with thy love and power;
let thy blessing fall on me.
(Refrain)

Make Room by Merideth Andrews CCLI Song # 7122057

Here is where I lay it down,
Every burden every crown
This is my surrender,
This is my surrender
Here is where I lay it down,
Every lie and every doubt
This is my surrender

And I will make room for you,
To do whatever you want to
To do whatever you want to,
And I will make room for you
To do whatever you want to,
To do whatever you want to

Here is where I lay it down,
Every burden every crown
This is my surrender,
This is my surrender
Here is where I lay it down,
Every lie and every doubt
This is my surrender

And I will make room for you,
To do whatever you want to
To do whatever you want to,
And I will make room for you
To do whatever you want to,
To do whatever you want to

Shake up the ground of all my tradition
Break down the walls of all my religion
Your way is better, Your way is better

Shake up the ground of all my tradition
Break down the walls of all my religion
Your way is better, Your way is better

And I will make room for you,
To do whatever you want to
To do whatever you want to,
And I will make room for you
To do whatever you want to,
To do whatever you want to

Here is where I lay it down,
Every burden every crown
This is my surrender,
This is my surrender
Here is where I lay it down,
Every lie and every doubt
This is my surrender

Here is where I lay it down,
You are all I’m chasing now
This is my surrender

Format (this is a repeat from last week, and will be consistently present for anyone new and as a reminder for all):
Find a quiet place and time to focus on the Word, and to hear from God through it. It doesn’t have to be long, for some it will be longer than others. I encourage you, if possible, to do this practice in the morning. You will then find that God brings it to your mind throughout your day.
For greater impact I encourage you to get some paper and a pen and journal daily what thoughts and impressions God brings to mind. Write out also your own thoughts and your own prayers, making sure to leave space within your time for God’s response. Listen intently, and notice what rises up within you- what you are thinking, feeling, memories that arise and ideas that spring up. It may be something God would want you to address within yourself and/or with others. It may be something God is inspiring you to begin or end. God’s possibilities are infinite! After time, it is often beneficial to go back and read what you have written, and notice how God has been moving in your life (and praise God for it!).
Begin with prayer, quieting yourself within and opening up to hearing what God would like to reveal to you. Praise God for who he is, for loving you, being with you, and more. Then ask God to speak to you; to open your heart and mind to hear his message. (if you are journaling, you could write out the prayer)
Read the Scripture passage over twice; once as a read through, and the second time slowly, meditatively. Notice what God illuminates for you. Notice what words or ideas are “jumping off the page at you,” impacting you from the Scripture. Ask God why that is being highlighted for you. What is God saying to you? What is God asking you to say, do, change, pray about, etc.? What is the application for my life today? **Most importantly- what am I going to do about it? (If you are journaling you could write it all out, which reinforces it in a greater way)
I have put together some daily questions based upon the Scripture. You may use those, but also feel free to deviate away from it if God is leading you there. They are simply offered to prompt contemplation with God. There is much more in this passage, feel free to delve in more!
At the end of your time pray again. I recommend praying throughout, but the ending prayer would include praise, thanking God for revelation, and asking for the Holy Spirit to continue to reveal, bringing to mind God’s will. Ask God for the courage, empowerment, and opportunity to do what you have determined God is asking you to do.