Philippians 4 (NIV)
Therefore,
my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and
long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the
Lord in this way, dear friends!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche
to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes,
and I ask you, my true companion, help these
women since they have contended at my side
in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement
and the rest of my co-workers, whose names
are in the book of life. 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.10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord
that at last you renewed your concern for
me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had
no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying
this because I am in need, for I have learned
to be content whatever the circumstances.
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.
14 Yet it was good of you to share in my
troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians
know, in the early days of your acquaintance
with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia,
not one church shared with me in the matter
of giving and receiving, except you only;
16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you
sent me aid more than once when I was in need.
17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire
is that more be credited to your account.
18 I have received full payment and have more
than enough. I am amply supplied, now that
I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts
you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an
acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19
And my God will meet all your needs according
to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
20 To our God and Father be glory for ever
and ever. Amen. 21 Greet all God’s people
in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters
who are with me send greetings. 22 All God’s
people here send you greetings, especially
those who belong to Caesar’s household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be
with your spirit. Amen.
