Stephan Hoffman

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Philippians 4:2-5

Believers sometimes differ. Unfortunately, these differences sometimes lead to disagreement and controversy. Paul felt it necessary to beseech with these two women to be in harmony with one another.

When one has a bigger perspective on life and on one’s identity in Christ, small differences should not drive Christians apart. Rather, Paul asks his co-worker to help these women to work together and support one another. Believers may differ, but must still work in harmony together for Christ.

After this exhortation, Paul speaks again of rejoicing in the Lord. He stresses that a believer can always, and in any circumstance, experience this joy. Joy is not something that happens to you, but something that you create by focusing on Jesus Christ in the midst of your circumstances.

When people focus on Christ together and live for him, the goodwill that God has bestowed on them flows through them towards each other, as well as towards everyone who comes their way. The secret is to remember that the Lord is near. Jesus Christ is waiting at every corner for you, he stands at every window and door, no he is even closer; he knows every twist and turn that your mind makes, he stands at the door of your heart. We must remember that the Lord is near. On the one hand, it comforts us and on the other, allows us to live more circumspect lives. More sympathy, more sensitivity, more kind words, constructive action, is the goodwill that flows from the knowledge that the Lord is near.

Let's let go of our petty differences and quarrels over trivialities. Let us turn back to Christ and each other. Let us allow God's grace to flow through us. Let us live and work of one mind in the Lord to the glory of his name.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am so sorry that I sometimes waste time on trivial quarrels. Help me to remember that you are near. You know me and I cannot hide anything from you. You also understand my struggles and difficulties in life. Please help me to deal with others with the same love and compassion that you have shown me.  Amen