Sharing Troubles

Friday, September 11, 2015
Philippians 4:1-14 NIV 

1 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.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does the Apostle Paul express His affection for the saints at Philippi and what is his closing admonition to them in this verse of his letter? (v.1)
2) What is the apostle's plea to the women of the church? Why? (v.2-3)
3) What else does the apostle encourage the saints at Philippi to do? Why? (v.4-9)
4) What does Paul write concerning himself and the care of the saints of Philippi for him? (v.10-14)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) How willing are you to share in the troubles of your brothers and sisters in Christ?
6) Which of the above verses will you place into practice in your own life? Why?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Lord wants His people to care for each other, especially as troubling times increase on this earth.
8) All Scripture is helpful to followers of Christ by teaching us how to live lives that are pleasing to our Lord.