December 06, 2020: SOAP #4021:  Philippians 1-4

SCRIPTURE:  Philippians (NIV) 4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

OBSERVATION:   Here is Paul’s secret to living the victorious life no matter what the circumstances.  Paul has learned to live his life through the strength of another!  Paul is not depending on his own strength.  Paul is not depending on his own wisdom.  Paul is not depending on his own resources.  Paul is confident that Christ can supply his every need.

APPLICATION:  Paul inserts this truth into a passage in which he is expressing his appreciation for those who sent money to support his team and their ministry.  (Please read verses 10-19)   Paul is not writing this to motivate his readers to give more; he is writing to thank them for what they had already given.  In mentioning that they had repeatedly sent finances, he makes it clear that he is not doing so in expectation that they send more. 

Paul recognizes that their offerings were given to God and that God would reward the givers by meeting their needs.  God had used the givers to meet Paul’s needs and Paul expected God to meet the needs of the givers!  

PRAYER:  Heavenly Father, you love to bless givers. Givers share in your character.  May I bless you by giving to others.  And when I am unable to bless those who give to me, I count on you to bless them.    Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!