Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me....And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

 Philippians 4:10-23

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me....And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:11-13,19

I return to my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  Today I focus on Philippians 4:10-23 where Paul completes his letter to the church in Philippi by thanking them for their physical and emotional/spiritual support.  Core to Paul's message is his exhortation that we are fully dependent on God to provide for all our needs and He never lets us down.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv13,19: God provides for all our needs, He strengthens and equips us through the Holy Spirit (the same power that raised Jesus from the dead), who never leaves and forsakes us and lives in our hearts.  With and through Him, we are indeed rich beyond measure.  See Romans 8:11, Matthew 6:31-33, and Ephesians 1:18. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv11-12: Paul describes how, through Christ, he is able to be content regardless of the circumstances - whether it be during periods of abundance or during periods of "hunger...[and] need." This same exhortation - that believers be content regardless of the circumstances - is found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.  Our conditions and circumstances may ebb and flow but God never changes and He is our rock, He provides for all of our needs, and we can put our trust and faith in Him as He is faithful. See also Malachi 3:6, Psalm 119:89, Matthew 24:35, and 2 Corinthians 1:20. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid lacking faith and trust in Him to provide - do not be anxious.  Claim the promises that regardless of our circumstances, God will provide, He loves us, our salvation is sealed/guaranteed, He never changes, and that He is faithful.  Follow the example of Paul to be content no matter what.  Repent of your sins, and put your faith and trust in Him.   

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My Prayer: Father God, thank You for my salvation, for providing for my every need, for never leaving or forsaking me, and for being my rock!  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.