Free Bible Commentary
“Philippians 4:10-14”
Categories: Philippians“But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.”
---End of Scripture verses---
The brethren in Philippi had sent Paul some money to help with his financial needs while he was in prison. He really appreciated that gift because it showed him how much they cared for him (verse 10), and it helped to ease some of his burdens during his time of “affliction” (verse 14). The money really was a blessing to him and he eagerly accepted it and was able to put it to good use.
But an even greater blessing is having the ability “to be content in whatever circumstances” that a person may find himself in (verse 11). Paul was happy with his gift but he knew he would have been alright even if they would not have had the “opportunity” to send it to him. Paul told Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:6-8, “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.”
Paul is not condemning having wealth or an abundance of material goods in today’s verses. He had learned to be content when he lived in “prosperity” and when he only had “humble means” (verse 12). I am of the opinion that prosperity is much better than poverty! But, if we have faith in the Lord Jesus, and all of our NEEDS are being met, we can be spiritually rich even if we are fiscally poor. If we keep our mind focused on Jesus, we can pull off being either wealthy or needy with our faith and salvation intact.
Paul called the ability to do this a “secret” (verse 12) because the majority of the people in the world have not acquired the skill of being content in all situations. The secret of being able to do “all things” (verse 3) is Jesus Christ. When we turn to Him for our strength, He will equip us to do every good thing that is in accordance with His will for us. When we are faithfully devoted to Christ, even when we are physically or monetarily “weak” we can be mentally and spiritually “strong” (2 Corinthians 12:12).
Ok the secret is out! The key to having and doing everything blessed and good is Jesus Christ! Now let’s get the word out, and let’s put all our trust in and focus on the Lord and His will for us!
Please read Philippians 4:15-23 for tomorrow.
Have a great day!
- Louie Taylor
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