In today’s reading, Paul speaks to the Philippians, addressing a breakdown in a relationship between two women,
Euodia and Syntyche. 
Something has happened which has caused disunity between these two women. Most likely, this was having a negative impact on the people around them, as Paul addresses it openly in front of everyone. 

Unfortunately, negativity and ill feelings can often spread a lot quicker than good news and positive feelings, so there is an urgency in his message.  He encourages them to address this situation promptly, and he even encourages others to help with reconciliation.

I am sure we all can recall instances or seasons where we have had a breakdown in a relationship.  Whether it be a relationship with a family member or a friend; or as in the case of Euodia and Syntyche someone with whom we fellowship.  All relationship breakdowns are disappointing and disheartening, but there is something very sorrowful about a breakdown with a brother or sister, with whom we fellowship especially when it is left unattended.

The impact of this doesn’t just remain between two people but it’s impact can spread to other individuals and groups.  Impacting how we worship together, serve each other, serve others, and even our witness of Jesus as Lord.  The impact on our testimony and the message of disunity that this may convey to people who are not of faith, can have a lasting impact on their openness to God.  We can learn from Paul’s passion and urgent plea, by not ignoring issues when they arise; paying attention to disunity and negativity; and by doing all that we can to heal rifts and breakdowns in relationships.

The chapter then addresses our relationships with God.  One which should be based on trust, confidence and assurance in every situation, which is much easier said than done!  “Do not worry 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.”

Is it even humanly possible not to worry about anything?  Never to be concerned?  Disturbed?  Anxious or distressed?  

We are designed to feel stress and anxiety when under threat, in danger or facing uncertainty.  Our hearts start racing, our palms become sweaty and our minds go into over-drive. 

These reactions are a part of being human.  Scripture is not saying that we won’t experience worry, anxiety, stress or even depression; difficult times come to us all.  We are encouraged however, to put our trust and confidence in God during these times, as He is willing and ready to guide us through every situation.

Peace is prayer’s companion.  Whatever the problem, circumstance or the situation, we can take it to the Lord in prayer.  The friendship and fellowship we can have with our Lord will help us to face any situation with the assurance, that He is a ‘God of all hopefulness and our Lord of all joy, whose trust, ever childlike, no cares could destroy’.  From our fellowship and friendship with Jesus, we can learn how to love, care and live in unity the people around us.

And finally, we are encouraged to have a healthy relationship with ourselves, filling our minds with good things, thinking the best, not the worst; dwelling on things that are beautiful, not the ugly; things that are celebratory and worthy of praise.  And every good thing that we have learnt we should put it into practice, so that God will be pleased with who we are, and how we live our lives. 

By having fellowship with each other, companionship with God and an honest and positive relationship with ourselves, we will be more able to live lives that are not plagued with worry or stress, but live lives which are filled with joy, contentment and peace.  Amen