Comfort verses from Philippians—Friday’s Fave Five

Last Wednesday in Elliott’s class on Philippians, we read “comfort verses.” I’m still thinking about them today, and thanking God that he inspired Paul to write this wonderfully full letter.

It’s hard narrowing down to five, but these are a few of my favorites.

1. Celebrate, celebrate!

Rejoice in the Lord always;
again I will say, Rejoice.
                                                                                                                  ~ PHILIPPIANS 4:4

I finally made it back to both Sunday and Wednesday classes with the church this week. It was encouraging to be with other believers and celebrate our common faith.

The most wonderful blessings are in Him. That is something to rejoice about every day!

2. Peace beyond comprehension

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 
                                                                                                                 ~ PHILIPPIANS 4:7

I’m over-creative with “what-if’s.”

• What if the cancer comes back?
• What if I look like a boy with my short haircut?
• What if we get a new puppy and he barks all the time?
• What if she has to have surgery?
• What if I can’t be nice?
• What if I never conquer this sin of worry?

Well, it will still be okay. God is bigger. He trumps it all. Live strong.

If we give him our worries (Philippians 4:6-7), he’ll give us his peace. Sounds like a great deal to me!

3. Beautiful thoughts

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 
                                                                                                                 ~ PHILIPPIANS 4:8

When I’m tired or stressed, my mind naturally flows downward, to thoughts of, “I’ve been a horrible mother this week,” or “I wish I could do what *I* want to do all day!” So I need scriptures like Philippians 4:8 to remind me to think beautiful, godly thoughts, not selfish, negative ones.

4. Win/Win

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 
                                                                                                                ~ PHILIPPIANS 1:21

I had a bad headache yesterday, and coupled with chronic back pain and lack of sleep, I look forward to a new body even more than normal. But even better than the promise of a new body after this one quits, is the promise to be with Christ in a fuller way. In the meantime, he lives with me even now, even in this body.

In Christ, we can’t lose. 

5. Strength to be content

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
                                                                                                                ~ PHILIPPIANS 4:13

Content? Satisfied?

• Even if none of your jeans are comfortable?
• Even if you don’t take Spring Break next week?
• Even if your father just died and your mother has Alzheimer’s and you don’t know what to do next?

Yes! That’s what he says (Philippians 4:11-13). In any and every circumstance, he’ll strengthen me. I’m not fully there, but I’ve sampled it enough to believe the promise is true and to keep coming back for more.

* * *
So I trade in my confessions for his forgiveness,
and worldly lies for the Lord’s truths.
And I find comfort.

Do you have a favorite verse in Philippians?
What has brought you comfort this week?

For more Friday favorites, visit Susanne and friends.