Philippians 4:19,20
Sometimes we tend to forget how this grand epistle to the Philippians ends. It climaxes with this thought, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Phil. 4:18). When you know such a God personally like the great apostle knew him, it completely changes your disposition and outlook.
Armed with this knowledge you no longer speak in terms of lack, poverty, and despair. With great confidence you say like the apostle, “But I have all things and abound: I am full…” (v.18). What a glorious thought! As a result of this, you do not let anybody make style or look down pitiably on you. The passage reminds us that we have it all. Not only do we have it all but because of Him we abound. Note Paul’s expression, I am full. In other words, Paul was declaring that as his servants we are rich, well-supplied and blessed in an exceeding measure. We have something above the ordinary. We have been extraordinarily blessed, uncommonly blessed!
Could I remind you today that as believers we have been given a double portion like Hannah (1Sam. 1:5). Please let that sink into somebody’s spirit today. This is not just wishful thinking but biblical truth and reality. You have all and abound. You are full. It is about time that we start confessing like the Psalmist David, “The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places: yea, I have a goodly heritage” (Psalm 16:6). We can honestly say today we have been naturally and supernaturally blessed in every sense of the word.
It is also noteworthy that the apostle Paul penned these lines while he was a prisoner in his own hired house and yet he was speaking of having all, with all abundance and fulness. There is no anger or bitterness or sad despair in his voice or tone. He meditatively writes about living in Christ and maintaining a joyful outlook always. Here, he teaches us about having the right mentality. We find it true that outlook determines outcome and that through Christ we can do all things and deal positively with whatever situation comes our way. In Him we are not poor. We triumphantly overcome and thrive.
Therefore, may we today as this great apostle learn how to rejoice in the Lord greatly (Phil. 4:10). Believers, please understand that despite the prevailing sadness of these times, we can still have joy and greatly rejoice. Let me repeat, this is not a funeral house, nor is the church, a funeral society, but a house of joy and celebration. May we get ready for an explosion of joy after this season of pain and darkness that seems to have descended upon our world. This God whom we have come to know so well, brings joy, and supplies all our need.
When we know Him, we also learn how to change our lingo and vocabulary. The learned apostle instructs us saying, “Neither do I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (v.11). Not only does he choose to rejoice but he also refuses to sulk or despair over the things he does not presently have.
When we have it, it does not matter and when we do not, it makes an extraordinarily minor difference. Whether full or hungry, in good times or tough times, we learn like the apostle, “We can do all things through Christ that strengthens us,” for He has indeed taught us how to endure and survive all the difficulties of life through Him (vv.12,13). Knowing that He is with us, supplying all our needs, changes our perspective completely! We unceasingly rejoice in Him and give Him all the glory – Amen.
Leroy V. Greenaway
Presiding Bishop – Northeast Region
October 29th, 2022
