SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

- From what the apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:2-3, what seemed to be going on in the Philippian church? Have you seen or been part of a disagreement or grievance between members of a church? How did this disunity affect the individuals involved? How did it affect the entire church?

- In Philippians 4:4, Paul tells us to rejoice in the Lord always. How can we always be rejoicing in the Lord? How would you define joy in the Lord? Are suffering and joy mutually exclusive? Why do you think Paul wrote, "The Lord is at hand?"

- In Philippians 4:5, Paul tells us to let our reasonableness be known to all. What does it mean to be reasonable? Is there a relationship between joy and being reasonable?

- In Philippians 4:6, Paul tells us to not be anxious about anything. How can we avoid being anxious or afraid? Is there a relationship between fear and reasonableness? Why are we to pray and let our requests be made known to God? How can that bring us peace?

- In Philippians 4:8, Paul tells us to think about certain things. What are these things? Who embodies these things? In what ways do you practice rejoicing; and being reasonable; and not being anxious; and praying; and thinking on godly things? Do you think practicing these things leads to peace in your life?