Prepare yourself to pray and receive the Spirit by letting go of the things that are currently wearing you down.
Open your hands to receive the Spirit, and prepare your mind and heart to receive His Word.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Meditate on these words, let them fill your mind. Imagine how these words can shape your life.
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Talk to God about what you need from Him right now.
Ask God for the grace to accept His response, and to follow His Will over your own.
Take a breath, and wait on the peace of God.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Meditate on each of the characteristics listed. Which stands out to you most?
How can you put what you are hearing from God into practice?
Share together and pray for each other.