The book of Philippians can be summarized in the word "encouragement". Throughout this letter, Paul is encouraging the people of Philippi to live out lives that are obedient to God and that are uplifting to one another. Paul wrote this letter while in prison to the church to also tell them how he was doing

Philippians serves as a field manual in turning thoughts away from negatives to positives, from distortions to truths, and from earthly views to heavenly ones. Paul's love for this church comes through clearly, as do his hopes that its members will resolve some of the tensions among them. His high view of Jesus and his wholehearted passion for following him are examples for his readers, and many throughout history have found encouragement and inspiration in his devotion. For anyone going through a difficult time, facing opposition, struggling with negative thoughts, or absorbed in a limited or false perspective, the words of Philippians offer motivation, redirection, and an entirely new way to see.