Sermon Recap: “Practicing a Rhythm of Peace” (Philippians 4:1-9)

This sermon was preached by Henry Michael Williams.

Anxiety is something we all experience at some level. Some of us have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders, while others deal with situational stress. But no matter where we are, we are all on a journey to become more like Christ—even in the midst of anxiety.

Philippians 4:1-9 is one of the most well-known passages in Scripture on anxiety and peace. Paul reminds us that peace isn’t just something to know about—it’s something we must practice in our daily lives.

To practice a rhythm of peace, we need to…

1. Work for peace in relationships (Philippians 4:1-3)

Paul calls out two women in the Philippian church, Euodia and Syntyche, urging them to reconcile. It’s a shocking moment—Paul doesn’t usually name names unless there’s serious division. Their conflict was affecting the mission of the church, just as relational tension can disrupt our own lives and communities.

When faced with relational conflict, we often respond in one of two ways:

• Avoid – Pretend it doesn’t exist, suppress our feelings, or distance ourselves.

• Fix – Try to control the situation, force reconciliation, or react in frustration.

Paul isn’t concerned with who was right or wrong—he’s concerned with peace. He reminds us that, in Christ, our names are written in the Book of Life. Our relationships in Christ are eternal.

Take a step toward peace this week:

• Recognize the need for reconciliation.

• Own your part in the conflict and take responsibility.

• Reach out—maybe a text, a phone call, or a simple step toward healing.

2. Pray about everything (Philippians 4:4-7)

Paul doesn’t say, “Stop it!” Instead, he teaches how to deal with anxiety:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

When we try to control everything, anxiety intensifies. But when we bring everything to God in prayer, He works in ways beyond our understanding.

Jesus modeled this in Gethsemane. Facing betrayal and the cross, He prayed, “Father, take this cup from me,” but He surrendered with, “Yet not my will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

Praying about everything isn’t about eliminating anxiety immediately—it’s about shifting the focus from our circumstances to God’s presence.

Simple practice:

• When worry rises, let it become a trigger for prayer.

• Instead of spiraling in anxious thoughts, turn them into conversations with God.

• Trust that His peace, which surpasses understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ.

3. Participate in something larger than yourself (Philippians 4:8-9)

Paul urges us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable (Philippians 4:8). He’s not just talking about positive thinking—he’s pointing to God’s creative action in our lives.

When we focus solely on fixing problems or controlling outcomes, we miss the bigger picture. But when we participate in God’s mission, we experience peace that isn’t dependent on circumstances.

How can you participate?

• Engage in community. Anxiety thrives in isolation. Join a small group, share your struggles, and walk together.

• Model peace for others. Show vulnerability. Let others see that no one has it all together, but in Christ, we have hope.

• Be part of the mission. Whether you’re going to the new campus or staying to send, step into God’s calling with faith, not fear.

We all desire peace, but often, we want God’s peace on our terms. Paul reminds us that peace isn’t found in controlling our circumstances—it’s found in trusting the presence of God.

When we work for peace in relationships, pray about everything, and participate in something bigger than ourselves, we begin to live in the peace that surpasses understanding—a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

What’s one step you can take this week to practice peace?

Photo by Joice Kelly on Unsplash