Philippians 4:4-5 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 

‘Rejoice in the Lord always’ – several times in the Scriptures we are commanded to rejoice in the Lord always – at all times!! This means to have our happiness in Him, not in anything or anyone else, for all those things or individuals can only bring temporarily contentment and happiness (1:6; 3:1; Ps. 33:1-2; 97:12; Mark 6:3).

‘Moderation’ [Greek: epieikes] mildness; patience; kindness; moderation; meekness; gentleness (1Tim. 3:3; Tit. 3:2; Jas. 3:17; 1Pet. 2:18). By keeping a state of friendliness, we can act as representatives for the Lord who is at hand. We are warned many times in Scripture to be perfect which means utter simplicity, sincerity, being free from guile and evil intention toward any one; having no part lacking in outward life, conduct, and religion. It does not mean sinless perfection or being without any tendencies to evil, for we can still choose to act selfishly or sin.

We are commanded in fourteen ways to be like Jesus: In righteousness (John 15:10-14; 1Cor. 1:30; Eph. 1:4; 5:27; 1Jn. 3:7). In freedom from the world (John 17:14-16; Rom. 12:1; Jas. 4:4; 1Jn. 2:15). In self-crucifixion (Rom. 6:1-23; Gal. 2:20). In walking in newness of life (Rom. 6:1-23; Gal. 5:16-26; Eph. 4:1-24). In enduring persecutions (Matt. 10:25; John 15:18-20; Mark 10:30). In works (John 14:12; Mark 9:23; 16:17-18; Matt. 17:20; 21:22). In the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23; John 13:34; 15:11-13). In total setting apart for God’s work (John 10:36; 17:17-19; 20:21). In walking in the light (1Jn. 1:7). In unity with God (John 17:11, 21-23). In suffering for others (1Pet. 2:21-23; 3:18-4:1; Php. 3:10). In life and conduct (1Jn. 2:6; 4:17). In enduring temptations (Heb. 2:18; 4:14-16; Jas. 1:2, 12). In manifesting the fullness of God (John 3:34; 7:37-39; 14:12; Eph. 3:19).

‘The Lord is at hand’ – The phrase is similar to Maranatha, which means our Lord comes. Here it means the Lord is Judge and is at hand to punish, which will happen at His Second Coming.