There are passages that can become go-to passages for many different reasons. Many of the psalms like Psalm 23 are regularly read by many. These passages can become a sort of grounding thought when things get out of control or when we need to be reminded of the nature of this life. They are touch stones that provide a base point for comparison and bring life into focus. I would like to share one of these passages with you.
When Paul wrote to the church in Philippi, it is evident that he is writing to people he cares for and that care for him. It is easy to pick up on a close relationship that they had, not only while he was with them, but they also prayed for and supported one another while they were apart. Towards the end of the letter, he writes:
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:4-9).
This section of scripture highlights several themes that help keep life in focus. We always have a reason to rejoice in the Lord. We have a responsibility to be an example to others. The Lord will return! Prayer and thanksgiving help with our anxieties. We have access to a surpassing peace from God. That peace is something that will guard our hearts and minds. We are given a list of eight things or areas to be dwelling on. The word actually means “to take inventory of.” What a great mental exercise! Take inventory of all the things that fit in these eight categories in our lives. Paul then mentions his example to the brethren and reminds us to do the same. We are to be an example to all men, as was mentioned, but we are also to be examples to one another. It is one thing to be an example to the world. Their moral standards are not that high. To be an example to other saints when we know the Scripture and the expectations that the Lord has for us, that is a different thing. The result is that the God of peace is with us.
I would challenge you to have a go-to passage for everyday living. Use this one, or comb through the Bible and find your own. Use it for your own touchstone and reminder.