Philippians 4:2-23.  Paul’s final words to the Philippians warn them of the things that can rob them of the peace with God which is theirs in Christ. 

1. Personal conflicts (like the disagreement that had developed among two prominent women in ministry) can obscure the peace of fellowship and the joy that comes with it (2-3).
2. Anxiety not checked by prayer can lead to depression which can open our minds to temptations to be unreasonable (4-7).
3. Dwelling on the wrong things or ideas and refusal to practice godly living can also strip us of our awareness of the presence of the God of peace (8-9).
4. Concern about unfulfilled needs can crowd out the awareness of the strength God gives us, leading to worry and doubt. Contentment and trust restore peace and foster joy (10-19).

LORD, restore to us the joy that we have in you — the peace that is ours which surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.