Philippians 4

New Heart English Bible (NHEB)•23 verses•~3 min read

Chapter Overview

Paul closes his letter with encouragement toward unity, prayer, peace, and contentment. In verses 10–13, he explains that he has learned to live with both plenty and need. The strength described in verse 13 belongs to that discussion, rather than promising unlimited achievement. Paul then thanks the Philippians for sharing in his trouble through practical support. The chapter holds dependence on Christ together with receiving care from other people.

Key Themes

Reflection Questions
What do the contrasts in verses 11–12 tell you about the meaning of verse 13?
How does Paul's gratitude for the Philippians' gift shape your understanding of contentment?
What concern could you bring into prayer, and what practical help could you receive?

1Therefore, my brothers, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.

2I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to think the same way in the Lord.

3Yes, I beg you also, true yokefellow, help these women, for they labored with me in the Good News, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, Rejoice!

5Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is near.

6In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.

9The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me: do these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

10But I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length you have revived your thought for me; in which you did indeed take thought, but you lacked opportunity.

11Not that I speak in respect to lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content in it.

12I know how to be humbled, and I know also how to abound. In everything and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in need.

13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

14However you did well that you shared in my affliction.

15You yourselves also know, you Philippians, that in the beginning of the Good News, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you only.

16For even in Thessalonica you sent once and again to my need.

17Not that I seek for the gift, but I seek for the fruit that increases to your account.

18But I have all things, and abound. I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, a sweet-smelling fragrance, an acceptable and well-pleasing sacrifice to God.

19My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

20Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

21Greet every holy one in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you.

22All the saints greet you, especially those who are of Caesar's household.

23The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

About Philippians

Joy in Christ even in difficult circumstances.

New Testament • Book #50 • 4 chapters

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