All Your Needs Will be Provided

Topic: Provision
Passage: Philippians 4:14–23

March 20, 2019

Commentary

Paul says it was good of you to help me when I was having such a hard time (v. 14). He continues by saying that my friends at Philippi remember what it was like when I started preaching the good news in Macedonia (v. 15). After I left there, they were the only church that became my partner by giving blessings and by receiving them in return. Even when I was in Thessalonica, they helped me more than once (v. 16). I am not trying to get something from them, but I want them to receive the blessings that come from giving (17).

Paul declares the he has paid back everything with interest. He states that he is completely satisfied with the gifts that Epaphroditus brought him (v. 18). They are like a sweet-smelling offering or like the right kind of sacrifice that pleases God. He prays that God will take care of all their needs with the wonderful blessings that come from Christ Jesus (v. 19)! He then asks God the Father to be praised forever and ever (v. 20).

Paul then gives his final greetings to all who are God’s people because of Christ Jesus (v. 21). He says, “the Lord’s followers here with me send you their greetings, especially those in the service of the Emperor” (v. 22). He then prays that our Lord Jesus Christ will be kind to you and will bless your life (v. 23)!

 

Application

When I am going through a hard situation it is easy for me to think that I am all alone and no one understands what I am going through. There may or may not be friends who understand my situation but I can always be sure that the Lord is always there for me. My concern needs to be for the needs of others and not dwelling on myself.

Philippians 4:14– 23 (NET)

14 Nevertheless, you did well to share with me in my trouble.

15 And as you Philippians know, at the beginning of my gospel ministry, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in this matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need. 17 I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account. 18 For I have received everything, and I have plenty. I have all I need because I received from Epaphroditus what you sent—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, very pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply your every need according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. 20 May glory be given to God our Father forever and ever. Amen.

21 Give greetings to all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers with me here send greetings. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.