It Starts Small

¹⁴ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶ for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. ¹⁷ Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. ¹⁸ I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:14-19

it was good of you to share in my troubles

Paul does not aim to downplay their vital contributions by merely discussing contentment. Instead, he fervently desires for our attention to be directed wholly toward God. We can passionately embrace the profound truth that God is good. He desires our hearts to be filled with contentment in every circumstance. Believers have a crucial responsibility to fiercely and generously support God’s workers.

not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving

It is a heart-wrenching truth. Paul was uniquely appointed by Christ to boldly carry the gospel to the Gentiles. He fervently established churches, passionately made disciples, vigorously trained leaders, and profoundly penned Scripture. Indeed, one can confidently assert that, apart from Jesus, Paul has wielded a transformative influence on the church. No other individual has had such an impact.

And yet, there were extended moments in his ministry when churches turned their backs on him. Undoubtedly, Paul’s unique ministry philosophy played a significant role in this neglect. He rarely sought support, determined instead to labor tirelessly and not burden the churches (2 Corinthians 9). Moreover, he was keen to avoid any hint of greed. Still, it is disheartening. Churches didn’t display the fervor and initiative that the Philippians exemplified. The Philippians rallied to support Paul more earnestly.

Every modern-day church has an incredible opportunity to draw inspiration from the fervor of the Philippians! It is essential that a significant portion of every church’s budget is dedicated to missions, outreach, and discipleship. Yet, too many churches are caught up in the allure of facilities, extravagant buildings, robes, and programs. They lose sight of their true mission—supporting those who are valiantly advancing the gospel! While we can’t put a price tag on it, the unmistakable priority must be missions! Think about how YOU can ignite a movement within your church to champion missions, both locally and abroad. Consider recommending a specific person or ministry in need of support. Be that passionate voice that inspires your church to focus outward, making a meaningful impact on the world!

what I desire is that more be credited to your account.

Paul passionately declares that his joy in this matter springs from a profound understanding. He knows that their generosity truly enriches their souls. It’s vital to emphasize that we must not stoop to begging for money. We should not proclaim, “I simply want to bless you by taking your hard-earned money!” Unfortunately, unscrupulous televangelists resort to such tactics. As they accumulate wealth, they indulge in extravagant purchases like private jets and elevate their already opulent lifestyles. In these actions, they hide their true motives. They claim, “I can’t deny their gifts.” They also say, “Nor can I rob them of the blessing their generosity brings.”

more than enough

A generous gift is a vibrant expression of a “sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” When we pour out our love by uplifting God’s workers, we are embracing God Himself with our hearts. In the Old Testament, the Israelites joyfully supported the priests and Levites, demonstrating their devotion through tithes and offerings to God. Today, we have the incredible opportunity to extend our generosity to missionaries, Bible teachers, church planters, evangelists, and disciple-makers. Take a moment to deeply reflect on your own giving. Are you unleashing your generosity? Prayerfully explore whether God is calling you to enhance your regular giving. Consider where your resources could make the most significant impact in fulfilling the Great Commission. Embrace the challenge of sacrificial giving, which brings joy to God’s heart.

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

A truly generous heart has nothing to fear about the future! This profound truth resonates not just with the Philippians but with every believer who selflessly fuels God’s mission. God promises to uphold and fulfill the needs of the generous, showering them with His divine provision! It’s essential to understand that this isn’t a mere guarantee of wealth or prosperity. It doesn’t claim, “Give X amount, and God will return it multiplied.” Nor does it assert that you’ll receive everything you desire or become wealthy beyond imagination. Rather, it assures us that God will lovingly and faithfully meet your needs!

When the Shunammite woman selflessly offered her last morsel of food to Elisha, she placed her complete trust in God. In return, He abundantly cared for her and her family. She may not have become wealthy, but she experienced the profound satisfaction of having enough to eat. God is overflowing with riches, and He delights in showering His beloved children with good gifts. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to offer the “first fruits” of their harvest. This act was not just about giving God the best. It was a declaration of priority. This ensured they honored Him first, before the demands of life could overtake their hearts and resources.

Some people hesitate to take this leap, consumed by fears of scarcity. But let go of that worry! Trust in God wholeheartedly—He will watch over you and provide for your every need with unwavering love and grace.

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Cross Reference verses on Generosity:

• Proverbs 22:9
• Matthew 6:3-4
• Luke 6:38
• Romans 8:32
• Acts 20:35
• 1 Timothy 6:18
• 2 Corinthians 9:7

Discussion Questions

• In what way did the Philippians share with Paul in his affliction?
• What distinction did the Philippians have in verse 15? What does this tell us about them?
• How many times had they given to Paul? Why? Shouldn’t Paul make money on his own?
• Why was Paul so happy about their generosity?
• How did their generosity profit them?
• Does God also want us to give today?
• To whom or what? Why? When? How much?
• What are the most common reasons for not giving?
• Are these good reasons?
• What about if we are on a very tight budget?

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