It was Good of You to Share in My Troubles
“10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Today’s passage presents Paul’s final exhortation to the Philippian church. Despite being imprisoned, he does not lose his joy but boldly proclaims, “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). This verse does not mean that we can accomplish whatever we desire, but rather that we can maintain unwavering faith in any circumstance. Paul had experienced both abundance and need, yet he learned the secret of being content—finding his strength in Christ and holding onto the certainty of the Lord’s return.
Paul expresses gratitude for the Philippians’ financial support, not merely because of the material help but because they were participating in the suffering of the gospel. He commends them, saying, “it was good of you to share in my troubles” (Philippians 4:14). Their generosity was not just an act of giving but a demonstration of their commitment to the gospel, bearing spiritual fruit through their sacrifices. Paul was not seeking gifts for himself but was eager for their devotion to bring them eternal rewards.
Faith is not merely contemplation but is deepened through action. As we understand God’s will in the midst of suffering, care for those in need, and offer our lives to Him, our faith matures. A Christ-centered faith moves beyond self-interest to actively serve and love others, embodying a life worthy of the gospel. With the confidence that we can endure all things through God’s strength, may we boldly walk the path of faith.
Prayer: Lord, we welcome Jesus as the center of our lives, trusting in His sovereign rule and power. May our perspective, lifestyle, and habits reflect Christ’s lordship. Help us put our faith into action as we seek Your kingdom. Deepen our devotion, allow our lives to bear fruit, and grant us the contentment and boldness that Paul experienced so that we may do all things through Your strength. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)