Simple Truths

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. 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. (Philippians 4:8-9)

Paul is urging his friends and all he has shared with over the years to hang in . . . to remain in communion with one another . . . not to give in to the world's ways of doing things.

Writng to a mix or Romans and Greeks in this urban city of Greece around A.D. 60-62, Paul now imprisoned, writes out of concern for what his people (he had planted a church in Philippi during his earlier missionary journeys)were hearing and how they were acting toward one another.

It is not out of place to apply Paul's words today to our churches in our part of the world!

We face many challenges today from cults, false teachers, social temptations,and media. How do we combat all of it and remain one?

It is not simple to turn from these things, but Paul gives practical advice: Do what we know is right! What we have been taught . . . adhere to those things. Trust wise and Godly counsel. Stay focused on the things we have seen and heard to be true and do not fall for the lies and new findings. Trust those who love us and above all else, trust the Word of God!

Many of us have memorized this verse until it sounds even too simple, yet it remains true today:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to him,and he will make your paths straight .(Proverbs 3:5-6)

Simple . . .truths!