By Rev. J. Loren Russell
Philippians 4:10-13
“But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I am always encouraged when I read Paul’s letter to the Philippian church. He not only acknowledges their gifts, but he appeals to them to remain resolute in their charity even when it becomes difficult. Although he appreciated their gifts, he was not dependent on them to be satisfied. His position and his encouragement was to remain strong no matter what.
Paul was living through his first Roman imprisonment when he wrote this letter. Because of his Roman citizenship, he was afforded meals, but they had to be provided by family or friends. The Philippians made sure he got the things he needed, so Paul encourages them to never lose their enthusiasm for giving even though they no longer had the opportunity at the time. Their every attempt was an inspiration to him as was evidenced when he said, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” (v11).
He had grown so confident in his relationship with Christ, that he was able to encourage the Philippians while incarcerated in a Roman jail and even though their supplies had not arrived. He tells them to meditate on those things that are good and of good report (4:8). “Good report” translates the Greek word euphemos, which is speech that is gracious, auspicious, praiseworthy, and fair. He says they should use him as their example. He was content whether he had provisions or not. Circumstances did not determine his contentment. He was satisfied because he trusted that Christ would strengthen him to do all things no matter what his situation or circumstance. He had grown to the point of having strength no matter what!
That is the same encouragement he gave to the Philippians and to us in this letter. No matter what you might be going through during these incredibly challenging times, Paul’s words of encouragement to the Philippians are just as relevant to us today, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Follow Paul’s advice so that you too can have strength no matter what!
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; creator & host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM on Facebook LIVE and author of Matters of Faith: The Book. eBook available at www.smashwords.com/books/view/993177
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