Paul and the Philippians

     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.

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Bible, Philippians 4:4-11

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     The apostle Paul wrote many letters to intending to encourage people in their faith with Christ. He had to use a lot of criticism when they were doing wrong things, but he still had to affirm what they were doing right. It was sometimes arduous work, but he did it because God told him to. When he wrote to the Philippians he was proud of them because they had continued to listen and obey the commandments of God. They followed their convictions and did not ignore their consciences.  After Paul changed to following God wholeheartedly, he was determined to tell the world about Jesus Christ. He also was committed to strengthening the people  who were already Christians. He sent letters to hold them accountable. Naturally, they were suppose to hold him accountable too. Paul reassured the Philippians as well as a lot of other folks in their faith and he taught the gospel to those who did not know it.