Philippians 4:10-13

Passage

And I have rejoiced in the Lord greatly that you all are now again in a familiar position to think of me – upon whom you were thinking but you lacked opportunity.  Not that I am speaking according to a need, for I learned about what I am to be content.  I have known what it is like to live in humble circumstances and I have known to live in abundance.  In everything and in all things I have learned the secret – even to be full and to be hungry and to be in abundance and to be in lack.  I am capable in the one who empowers.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Paul is grateful for the Philippians’ concern.  It is easy to read this passage in the light of equating “thinking of me” and “financially supporting me.”  In truth, this probably has some air of truth – especially given what Paul says later in the same paragraph.  However, we do all have needs that it feels good to have others meet regardless of whether they are financial, physical, mental, or emotional.  It is good to realize that other people are coming along beside us and helping us walk through life together.

What needs do you have?  Who are the people who are helping you meet those needs?  Are there any needs that you have that are unmet?  Who are the people that might be able to help you with those?

Second Thought:

Paul speaks about living in extremes.  He speaks about living in abundance and in need.  Certainly Paul is talking about life provisions here: food, clothing, shelter, etc.  But I also believe Paul is talking about spirituality as well.  He knows what it is like to live in a place of spiritual abundance as well as spiritual wasteland.  His conclusion is sound.  Regardless of whether we are in abundance or lack – physically or spiritually – the trick is learning how to be content.  We find contentedness not in the stuff around us but rather in God.

How are you doing with contentedness in life?  What brings you to a place of being content?

Third Thought:

Paul says that he is capable in the one who empowers.  This is both a statement of confidence and humbleness.  Paul knows that he can accomplish what he has been asked to do.  God gives him the power to do it.  However, Paul recognizes that it is God from whom the power comes.  Paul is not saying he can succeed at anything.  He is saying that he can succeed at that which he has been empowered to accomplish.

What has God asked you to do?  What has God empowered you to do?  Do you feel confident in your ability to accomplish that task?  Are you content with your ability to accomplish the task?

Passage for Tomorrow: Philippians 4:14-20