Philippians 4:8,9

Thinking On Things That Will Yield the Peace of God

Those things given thoughtful consideration will have a great impact on one's life (Proverbs 23:1-35; Proverbs 7:1-27; Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 12:34). Knowing this, Paul gave a list of things to think on. He would have Christians think on "true things," which would be things in accord with God's word (John 17:17). "Noble things" would be reverend, serious, combining a sense or gravity and dignity. The word "just" indicates right conduct. "Pure" is used only for those things not contaminated. Pleasing and agreeable things would be "lovely." Only those things with a good reputation would qualify as being "of good report".

The New Bible Commentary: Revised suggests that "virtue is moral excellence. Paul wanted the church at Philippi to love so as to show a moral excellence and praiseworthy type of conduct. To do that, he told them they would have to give close attention to those things just mentioned (1 Peter 4:8).

Paul had both taught them and shown them how to live the Christian life. So, he urged them to go on from right thought to right action (1 Corinthians 11:1). Such would result in God, who is the source of peace, being with them (1 Peter 4:9; compare vs. 7.)

1 Peter 4:10-13

The Lord Enabled Paul in All Circumstances

The church in Philippi had sent Paul a gift just prior to the time he wrote this letter. Their help was not something new, but a revival of a good work they had done before. From what the apostle also says, it seems they had been wanting to help but had been hindered in some way. Max Hughes says "their lack was not sympathy but of opportunity" (1 Peter 4:10).

Even today, as this passage is read, it might appear Paul was suffering through some time of great deprivation. However, Paul said such was not the case because he had learned to be content, or live without assistance, no matter what physical circumstances were his. Notice, he had to learn. It did not come naturally. Paul knew how to suffer through sparse times (2 Corinthians 11:7) and times of plenty. His joy was not based upon his economic status of the moment (1 Peter 4:11-12).

Paul could be content no matter what his circumstances because he was in Christ (compare Ephesians 1:3-4; Ephesians 1:6-7; Ephesians 1:10-11; Ephesians 2:4-6; Ephesians 2:13). Instead of "through Christ," the American Standard Version has "in him," which reminds us of the location of Paul's rejoicing as was seen in verse 4. Any true follower of Christ can be confident that all will work out for his good in Christ (1 Peter 4:13; 2 Corinthians 2:14 a; Romans 8:28; Romans 8:35-39).