Paul returns to the main theme of this section of his letter to the Philippians, their financial gifts in support of Paul’s ministry.

Take a look at this passage for yourself in Philippians 4:14-16:

In the previous verses, Paul has just explained how he has learned the secret to being content, no matter what the circumstances may be. As he returns to the theme of the Philippians’ gift to him, he lets his readers know that their gift is not necessary for his contentment. And yet it is still greatly appreciated.

Paul sees more than just a financial gift. He sees the Christlike behavior and attitude of the givers. Not only have the Philippians accepted the Lordship of Christ, they have bought into Paul’s vision of spreading the gospel around the world.

Paul makes it very clear in this passage that the Philippian church was the only one that supported him as he worked to spread the message of Christ. And they have done so more than just in this instance. More than once, when Paul was in Thessalonica, they sent financial gifts as well. And the did so earlier in Paul’s ministry, when he was leaving Macedonia.

The Philippian church has set themselves in the position of being a continual ministry partner with Paul’s missional efforts. Though they may not be able to go and preach, as Paul does, they can contribute by supporting him as much as they can.

And Paul is grateful for these gifts. He expresses he love and gratitude for their continual support, as well as for the spiritual maturity it displays.

It is worth mentioning that Paul does not often address his churches by name, as he does here, with “as you Philippians know.” Those few times that he does so (such as 2 Corinthians 6:11) express a deep and heartfelt affection for the ones he is writing to. Paul has invested not only a lot of work in starting churches, but a lot of emotional connection with the people he has met as well. His heart is with those who have accepted the message of Christ.

As Paul thanks the church for their gifts and their generosity, heaven takes notice. God accomplishes his work when we, like the Philippian church, give to his work. Every time we give, something is accomplished for the Kingdom. But the reverse of this is true also. Money has to be turned loose before it can do any good. We must give it before God can use it.

And use it he will. We may or may not ever see the results, but we can know that God uses our gifts, and multiplies them far beyond what we could expect.

With this, Paul begins to wrap up his letter to the Philippians, but over the course of the next few verses, he will give several more solid nuggets of truth concerning giving, and how it affects us and grows us.

Question: How is your attitude toward giving? Do you need to work on this? You can leave a comment by clicking here.