Standing Firm

This week's passage follows Paul's pattern of including general exhortations towards the very end of his letter. What is unique about this list of exhortations is that it's modeled after Paul's own behavior among the Philippians (4:9). Though we may be tempted to fly over a list of applications as "things we already know", this passage should cause us to stop, reflect, and see the fruit of striving for Jesus; individual, corporate, and spiritual peace. This is a peace that surpasses understanding and provides communion with the God of peace. We ought to strive for that worthy goal of an upward call and a peace with God that brings contentment and joy to the whole of our lives.