Philippians 4:14-23
“Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 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; for even when I was in Thessalonica you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; 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. And my God will meet all you needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever, Amen.
Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send greetings. All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.”
A couple of thoughts come to mind as I take a look at Paul’s closing remarks…(surprise surprise). Ok, really one primary thought. As Paul is affirming the giving that the Philippian church has done, specifically to Paul, he references the reality that their gift to Paul, was not just about him, it was about God. What they were giving to Paul was a pleasing, acceptable sacrifice to God. And God’s response to them was a desire and willingness to meet their needs.
When we give, when we are called to give, in the name of Christ, we are giving not simply to the person who is receiving our gifts, we are offering something to God. We are responsible before God to give (wisely) and the receivers are responsible to use the gifts wisely. And while I do not believe that we give so that we may receive (not explicitly in the financial sense…although in my reality, that often seems to happen), we will be looked after by Christ, and He will look after us out of His vast resources. This should excite us.
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