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DAILY WORDS OF HOPE
BY PCG, HOPE CONGREGATION–SAK. EST
WED. 17.03.2021
TODAY’S VERSE: PHILIPPIANS 4: 14-23
THEME: PAUL’S GRATITUDE: AN EXAMPLE FOR US TODAY
WORDS OF HOPE:
Paul’s discussion of learning to be content in all circumstances in no way was meant to lessen his gratitude for what they had done for him both in the present and in the past. When you perceive your world in terms of having your needs met in Christ, then there is not a quest for any particular item. When you are given a gift, you are grateful, not for the gift itself so much as the one who has given it to you.
Your focus becomes more on people than on things. In verse 10, Paul’s great rejoicing in the Lord is in the Philippians concern for him. The gift is simply the tangible expression of that concern. He acknowledges that they had that concern all along but just did not have the opportunity to express it. In verses 11-13, Paul explains that his gratitude is not according to some need he had, for he had learned how to be content whatever his circumstances.
In verse 14, Paul commends them for sharing in his affliction. Notice again how the focus is on his relationship with them. He does not say that they are alleviating his affliction, though certainly, their gift was helpful. Paul’s perception is that through their gift, they were taking part in what he is going through. They are sharing in it with him. They are in partnership together. The Philippians are a good model for all of us to follow. They did not give it because it was convenient. They did not give out of their excess funds or spendable income. They gave sacrificially without expectation of reciprocation, for neither Paul nor the poor in Jerusalem would be able to do so except in thanksgiving and prayers on their behalf.
Again, they gave out of their love for God. Paul concludes in verse 23 with a short yet befitting benediction, “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” As you also emulate Paul, as well as the attitude of the Philippian church towards him, may these blessings also be yours in Jesus’ name.
PRAYER TOPICS:
• Pray to give with love for the Lord.
• Lord, grant me the grace to give without expecting returns.
• Lord, remind us of our love towards others.
PRAYER:
Lord, may my life be a blessing to others in the name of Jesus. Amen
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