Practical Counsel

So then, my brothers, you are dearly loved and longed for—my joy and crown.(A) In this manner stand firm(B) in the Lord, dear friends. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I also ask you, true partner,[a] to help these women who have contended for the gospel at my side, along with Clement and the rest of my coworkers whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.(C) Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses(D) every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.(E)

Finally brothers, whatever is true,(F) whatever is honorable,(G) whatever is just,(H) whatever is pure,(I) whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence(J) and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. Do what you have learned and received(K) and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Appreciation of Support

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again(L) you renewed your care for me.(M) You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot.(N) In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him[b] who strengthens me.(O) 14 Still, you did well by sharing with me in my hardship.

15 And you Philippians(P) know that in the early days of the gospel,(Q) when I left Macedonia,(R) no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica(S) you sent gifts for my need(T) several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit[c](U) that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full,(V) and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus(W) what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing(X) to God. 19 And my God(Y) will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father(Z) be glory forever and ever.(AA) Amen.(AB)

Final Greetings

21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. Those brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, but especially those from Caesar’s(AC) household.(AD) 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.[d](AE)

Footnotes

  1. Philippians 4:3 Or true Syzygus, possibly a person’s name
  2. Philippians 4:13 Other mss read Christ
  3. Philippians 4:17 Lit fruit
  4. Philippians 4:23 Other mss add Amen.

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