What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—put these things into practice, and the God of shalom [peace] will be with you. Philippians 4:9, TLV
Practice Makes Peace. Philippians is one of the letters Paul wrote from prison. Based on the tone of Paul’s letter, the believing community in Philippi seemed to be a favorite of his. They were engaged and supportive of Paul’s teachings because it is reflected in their faithfulness, compassion, and benevolence. Some within the community actually traveled with him (vss. 2-3).
Scholars say this epistle could be summed up in one verse:
Rejoice in the Lord always—again I will say, rejoice! (vs. 4, TLV)
In today’s verse, Paul says something telling about these brothers and sisters in faith. He says, “What you have learned and received and seen in me …” These precious souls heard and practiced what they learned. They received what Paul taught them and heard the lesson because they saw it in Paul.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any virtue and if there is anything worthy of praise—dwell on these things. (vs. 8, TLV)
If these people walked out what they were taught, then the peace of GOD would be with them. Their minds would be focused on the virtues of verse 8. Not that they would be perfect, but that they keep practicing.
How about us? Many of us have been steeped in Biblical teachings and lessons, but have we truly heard? Do we practice them? If we find we are without the shalom of GOD, perhaps our mind is otherwise concerned and worried about the the lies, dishonorable, unjust, evil, ugly, and unspeakable things around us. These are only worthy of discouragement and frustration. Is that what people see in us?
My God will fulfill every need of yours according to the riches of His glory in Messiah Yeshua [Jesus]. To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever! Amen. (vss. 19-20, TLV)
This doesn’t mean fake it until you make it. It means to position ourselves in gratitude and praise so we’re better able to sort through the garbage around us and find the true treasure that was always there. Then, keep practicing and our Father’s peace will come.
Shabbat shalom!
