Transcript

Today's Bible Translation

Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 3-4 NET

Podcast Introduction

It’s Epistles Sunday. We’ll read Philippians 3-4. We’ll also have a time of prayer, and since this is Palm Sunday, we’ll talk a bit about what this day in Holy Week is all about. I’m calling this episode “Finding Peace In Turbulent Times.”

Design: Jason Paschall | Photo: Unsplash+

Comments on Philippians 4

I’m going to make an assumption…something that I try not to do with any regularity. But I think this is probably a safe assumption. I’m assuming that you would you agree with me that we live in turbulent, troubled times. Did I get that right? As a matter of fact, I’m so sure about it that I’m not even going to list the problems that are going on in the world. You know what they are, because if you are at all aware of world events, as my grandfather would say, it’s nigh-on  impossible to be unaware of the plight of mankind.

The apostle Paul lived in turbulent times, too. And he bore the scars to prove it. 

But through it all, he was led by the Holy Spirit to write these words in chapter 4, verses 6-8: Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.

Beloved, the fact that there are problems in the world is not new. We live in a fallen world that is suffering the effects of sin. It was true in Paul’s time. It is true in our time. But we are called to take our concerns to God in prayer and leave them in His more-than-capable hands. And then, we are to stop focussing on the bad, and look for the good. 

How can we, with any degree of authenticity, share the Good News of Jesus if we are constantly stressed out about the troubles of the world? If our life doesn’t radiate the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, why should anyone choose to follow Christ? How can we say, “Follow Jesus. Be like me?”

If you find yourself getting worked up about current events, turn off the media spigot. Stop watching the TV news. Turn off the talk shows. Quit arguing on social media. The problems in the world are not new, and your getting all worked up about them will not change them. As a student of the Bible, you should know that problems will be a part of man’s existence until the Lord returns. 

Do you want to help your fellow man? You can make an eternal difference in the lives of men and women by introducing them to the Prince of Peace, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. 

Only He can sort out the problems in the world. And only those whose faith is in Him will experience the peace every person seeks. 

Our time on earth is short. Eternity is forever, and it awaits us all. Keep your eyes fixed on the prize that Jesus bought for those who choose to follow him.

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Steve Webb 0:00It's nigh on impossible!

Steve Webb 0:09What time is it? It's time for another Lifespring! One Year Bible and I'm coming to you from Riverside, California as usual, podcasting since 2004. Time, your OG Godcaster Steve Webb. This is the daily podcast where we're reading through the entire Bible in a year. And this is episode 183 of the 13th season, which means that we're now officially into the second half of the season.