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The ultimate source of our trust, our peace and refuge is in God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Without this we are as nothing, but as flotsam and jetsam upon the tide of times. Jesus Christ has given focus and purpose to our lives.

How wonderfully the Apostle Paul expresses these sentiments in his epistle to the Philippians which serve as our text for today. First of all let us rejoice, “and again I say Rejoice.” Above all let us be happy that we are privileged to be numbered to the children of God and have an intimate relationship with the most High. We certainly have something to rejoice about, as David also joyously exclaimed “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4.

We are exhorted to behave as is becoming of children of God by living moderate in our conduct. That means being fair, level-headed, keeping our temper, being tolerant and temperate in our habits. In verse 6, we are told ‘be careful for nothing’ that means do not worry about anything unduly, instead seek help by prayer and supplication with a thankful heart to God.

It would be vain to try to improve upon the words of the Apostle Paul in verse 7. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”  This peace, which the Apostle Paul promises is laid before us like a bridge over the troubled waters of life by Jesus our Saviour, He is the One who laid Himself down at Calvary, so that we might pass over Him.

In verse 8 the subject of our integrity, our moral fibre is raised. There is no substitute for being truthful, honest, just and pure. Seek out that which is lovely and beautiful, which is of good reputation in life. Meditate and refine our virtues, praise and exalt these things.

In verse 9, the Apostle Paul takes our conduct upon his shoulders as his personal responsibility. It means he had to practice what he preached. To set himself as an example for us all. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be with you.” In the same fearless manner as the Apostle Paul sets himself an example for us which, indeed he was, we too must strive to act as living examples for our contemporaries. This requires a fearless and courageous heart’s attitude. It is far easier to wrap our talent in a napkin and bury it in the garden. Of course, we all have our faults, but the Kingdom of Heaven is for overcomers, not for those filled with excuses. Let us excuse ourselves not, rather go forward in this wonderful work which our Saviour has entrusted to us. Not asking for the impossible. The Apostolics of old were not given bags of money, nor special help from anybody. They helped themselves and each other, calling upon the Lord to help them help themselves. The Lord heard their prayers and blessed them beyond their wildest dreams. He will do the same for us too.