Euodia and Syntyche - Pt 4

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, 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 understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9 ESV).

In the second half of verse five the apostle says, “Remember the Lord is at hand” (v. 5b). While some interpreters have thought this to be a reference to the imminent return of Jesus, I believe along with the reformers that he is stating an obvious truth that we are not alone. John Calvin wrote: “…that the Lord is at hand, whose power can overcome their audacity, and whose goodness can conquer their malice. He promises that he will aid us, provided we obey his commandment. Now, who would not rather be protected by the hand of God alone, than have all the resources of the world at his command?” This becomes the basis of our reasonableness. You will not go undefended forever. The Lord bottles every tear you shed, and he will avenge you. False accusations won’t survive eternity. I’ve always imagined the day when all of the untruths are revealed for what they are. These lies, hurtful words, and malicious gossiping will be dealt with finally. It will be a wonderful moment of vindication. However, until then my comfort and gentleness can be rooted in the knowledge of the presence of the Lord now. I remember well the admonition of one of my favorite seminary professors, Bill Tolar, when he cautioned us against “leashing the Lord.” His reference was in our coming to the defense of the Lord and the truth of Scripture. He said, “If you have a lion walking beside you, why would muzzle and leash him? Turn Him loose! He is fully capable of defending Himself and you!” We should also take caution with this truth. The Lord sees everything you say and do. He won’t condone any actions we take to defame others, even if we think they deserve it. Praise the ever-present one who never returns evil for evil and who will never repay us as we deserve.