Paul teaches us how to rejoice and walk in peace, as we love each other. If we hearken, then we'll have the good results.

First, Paul urges us to be of the same mind in the Lord. vs2, “ I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.” We are bought by the blood of Christ and one in the gospel. We have the same Spirit, and we are the same in love for Christ to different degrees. We are not to bite and attack one another, nor hold each other in suspicion. We’re to love each other, and go about the work.

Let everything else perish that differentiates us. We have a bond and a command that’s higher than petty squabbles and political differences. Ephesians 4:3, “diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit with the peace that binds us.” If we can’t agree on anything outside of the gospel, it doesn’t matter. Let us be one in Christ.

Thus, we have to put aside self-seeking and advance the kingdom. We have to be happy to see Christ exalted by imperfect saints. We can’t be in competition. We can’t be easily offended to the point of cutting off relationships. We can’t keep distance, give up on each other, and harbor bitterness. We have a Higher Master that we follow, and His law is love.

Let us be diligent to pursue love as people annoy us. Let us forgive and talk about offenses. Luke 17:3, “Be on your guard. If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him.” Let us get to the source of rumors and suspicion, rather than believing every report. Let us love, instead of acting as judges. Let us help one another up, rather than saying, “This person isn’t good enough.” Let us mind the lowly and not walk proudly.

Secondly, we have a command to rejoice in the Lord. vs4, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” This is a good command, because it drives us to joy, even as all commands when properly followed. We look up to Christ in our RESPONSIBILITY, and then we get the grace to rejoice in Him, even when circumstances are painful, because we have a good and gracious Lord - One who forgives and helps us.

Rejoice, in spite of your sins. Rejoice in forgiveness assured by the word. Rejoice, in spite of your sorrow, because God sent it in love, and He will give the comfort. Rejoice in your future, because God cares for you tomorrow, and He’ll be there with sufficient grace. Rejoice in a sin cursed world, because you have the Savior who will save the elect. Rejoice in the goodness, love, and justice of God. Rejoice in Him on the throne. No one else could rule more justly and fairly. No one has demonstrated greater love. His wisdom is perfect.

Thirdly, we have a promise: If we pray with thanksgiving, then God’s peace will be with us. Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Acknowledge Him a good and gracious God. Receive from His hand whatever He does, and be content. Bow to His love, even painful discipline, and rejoice in God’s goodness and covenant keeping character.

He will give us peace SUPERNATURALLY, as we do His will. John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.”

Oh, we have a good recipe in Philippians 4. Put away strife, rejoice in the Lord, and pray with thanksgiving. If we do these things, then we’ll have God’s peace! It’s not a mystery that can’t be found; it is not beyond our reach. We can have it daily by following His directions. Let us love each other, rejoice in Christ, and pray without complaining! We can pour out our heart, but let us believe God’s a hearing Father. He is too good to silence thanksgiving in every request: He has saved us. Oh saints. Get this peace and walk in it. Let it rule you, and when it’s not there, then go find it [Col 3:15].