The book of Philippians is a book of thanksgiving. Paul was frequently imprisoned. It was the church of Philippians who sent a gift to Paul in prison. This letter is Paul’s reply to the church after their giving. This church had learnt that blessing that comes from giving. God will provide in our times of need.

1 – The beauty of giving (vs. 14)

They came alongside Paul when he was in trouble. They had done well.

• Giving blesses others (vs. 14-15) – God wants us to be springs rather than cisterns. We are to give to others. There were those churches who had behaved as cisterns rather than springs.
• It enriches us (vs. 17) – Paul knew how to be content (vs. 11). Our life is enriched and blessed when we give. The fruit comes back to us. Are you missing on the blessing of God?
• It pleases God (vs. 18) – When you give then you give glory to the Lord. Don’t stop praising the Lord when the offering comes around! A public offering is part of the worship to the Lord. We are to give with a thankful heart.

2 – The bounty of God (vs. 17)

God will supply all your needs when you have done your part! God will meet all of your needs and not your greeds. God will fill you up with blessings. If your life is not filled with the blessings of God it is your fault. We need to do our part. You need to be in fellowship with God and his people. You need to be giving to God so that He can give back to you. You do right with what has given you and he will give you even more.

• The source of our supply – He is the fountain that will run dry. He is the warehouse that will never run out. Where is your security? Is it in your house? It will go up and down. Is your security in the economy? It goes up and it goes down. God’s blessings are more certain. Our God is a good God. How can a perfect God put up with imperfect man? The only conclusion is that God is good! He is full of grace. We are saved and kept saved by God’s grace. We can draw from the grace account.
• The scope of our supply – God will supply “all” of our needs. Whatever the area God says he can handle it. There are deep needs that only God can meet. If you are lonely then God can be your friend. You don’t need wine; you need God in your life.
• The standard of our supply – God gave us a gift according to His riches. God will give based on much He has! Wow! This is the best investment you get in your life! If you don’t want to get on it then it is your fault! God will meet your needs if you let Him. This is one investment plan that continues after we die!

3 – The blessing of glory (vs. 20)

We will burst into a doxology of praise. God will provide so we can praise Him. When was the last time you that you prayed and didn’t request things from God and you simply thanked and praised him? Why not use today as a day of thanks and praise? Don’t ask for anything; just praise and thank the Father! Praise him for who he is, what he has done, and what he is going to do! Thank him for blessing you, saving you, and bringing you into his glory! Let today be a day of thanks and praise.

Categories: Philippians