Today's Scripture
God ’s Gifts Philippians 4:10 -19
10 I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. 11 Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 In any case, it was kind of you to share my distress.
15 You Philippians indeed know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you alone. 16 For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me help for my needs more than once. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that accumulates to your account. 18 I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
RJ's Devotion
What does the passage say?
V. 10-14 Paul thanks the church of Philippi for their gift of support. He shares how the contentment he has in Christ enables him to continue God’s will.
V. 15-19 Although, he shares his gratitude with the people in the church, and bless them to continue the work of God, seeing how God provides.
What does this passage mean to me/us?
Paul compliments the generosity of the church, supporting his mission. Not because he needs more, but because he knows how God will continue to pour out God’s blessing to the people who are committed to God’s will.
The Message Bible describes it well. “Not that I’m looking for handouts, but I do want you to experience the blessing that issues from generosity. And now I have it all—and keep getting more! The gifts you sent with Epaphroditus were more than enough, like a sweet-smelling sacrifice roasting on the altar, filling the air with fragrance, pleasing God no end. You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus. Our God and Father abounds in glory that just pours out into eternity. Yes” (v. 17-20 Message).
The reason why Paul was encouraging the people to continue in their generous act was not that he was in need, but because he wanted to have them experience God’s generosity.
Did we lose that by any chance?
Prayer
Lord, help us to see your call to give our everything to you and for your purpose. Help us see how you make things possible, through the strength that you provide. Not for our glory, but only for you.
In Christ Name, AMEN.
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