Reading: Philippians 4:1-3

Be Still And Know:

“Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.” Philippians 4:1

Drink Deep From The Well:

As Paul wrote his letter from prison, he mentioned three specific women and shared his words of wisdom. 

I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me int he gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. (verse 2-3)

Paul was urging, or pleading, with Euodia and Syntyche to “agree in the Lord.” An argument tore these women apart and ultimately disrupted the unity of the church. Paul’s appeal for them to “agree in the Lord” is a reminder to be “of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” (Phil. 2:2). The body of Christ must be unified in the gospel. Ultimately, there will be disagreements, but the body should be one in Jesus. Paul did not tell these two women to agree on an issue. He told them to agree “in the Lord.” Jesus is the central figure in his urging for unity. The cross of Christ unifies the church. 

In order of us to be “of the same mind” we must go back to the example given to us in Philippians 2. “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:4-5). Jesus endured the cross for us. He humbled Himself by becoming a servant and giving up His life so we could have true life. He is the model for unity, He is the source of peace in our relationships. Euodia and Syntyche lost focus of what truly matters. Although we do not know what they were arguing about, we all know what it is like to be separated from another believer due to an argument. There is little peace, joy, and fruit when factions divide our unity in Jesus. We must keep our eyes on Christ and let the small things be set aside. Satan will do all he can to distract us from serving the Lord and advancing the kingdom of God. We must be aware of his tactics and be faithful to serve one another in love. 

We “agree in the Lord” because the Jesus died for all. His blood covers our divisive arguments and the cross bridges the gap. Like these women, we also need a reminder to keep the main thing the main thing. Arguments will fade away and opinions are fallible, but our trust and belief in the cross of Christ will never lose its power. Jesus is the Key to our freedom and our unity. Let us lay down our pride, our disagreements, and our arguments and agree on one thing: Jesus Christ.

Ask And Apply:

1. Are there any arguments between you and another believer that you need settle by “agreeing in the Lord?”
2. Paul tells the church to “stand firm” in the Lord. What does this look like in everyday life?

Today I Learned:

Jesus is the key to unity.

Today I Will:

Today I will lay down my pride and look to the interests of others before my own. I will follow Jesus’ example.

Pray BIG:

Jesus, You are the Author of unity. You are the cord that ties us together. Thank You for the cross that bridges our relationship with You and with others. May our unity glorify Your name! Amen.