In this last chapter of Philippians, he encouraged the church to stand firm in the Lord, to reconcile disagreements, and to "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" The reason we can rejoice always is because the Lord is near, and we can pray and bring to him any requests and concerns. We also are to be thankful, because we can trust the Lord to know what He is doing, even if we do not understand. When we do that, He provides a peace that transcends all understanding. We are to transform our thoughts to good things: truth, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy things. Paul encouraged the church to follow his example and teachings. He was thankful for their gift to him, and then he spoke of his contentment that comes in Christ. 4:13, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength", and then he told the church, "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." He ended his letter with "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit! Amen!"
