Philippians 4:14-20 Follow the Money Trail

Philippians 4:14 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 again and again when I was in need. 17 Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. 

18 I have received full payment and even more; 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. 19And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

The apostle's "Thank you note". Paul had just told the Philippians that he could survive whether richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, in danger or safety, in hunger or feasting.   He could endure "all these things through Christ who gives him strength".   But he goes on to tell them that it's good for them that they did help him financially, when no one else did. 

 Paul knew he would be provided for... it probably didn't matter too much where his provision came from, because ultimately, he knew it came from God.   Whether God had ravens bring him bread like they did for Elijah, or whether the Philippians sent resources, Paul's trust was in God taking care of his needs.   What made him glad was the implication of their material gifts. It was evidence of their spiritual condition and their love for him. 

"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be" Matt 6:21   Notice it doesn't say that you should "put your money where your heart is".   It says that the things we invest in are the very things that our heart will be drawn to.  Read it again.  Spending patterns are a map to our devotion and affections.  When we choose to invest in spiritual things our heart becomes attached to them. Follow the money and you'll find the heart and soul.  Show me your checkbook and I'll tell you what or whom you love.

Giving is the antidote to selfishness.

Giving reminds us to hold loosely to the temporary and material

Giving is a chance to invest in the eternal.

Giving changes our heart and our longings.  

Paul reminds them that God is pleased with the their gifts and that He is the one who will meet their needs as well.  He owns the cattle on a thousand hills, keeps the planets in orbit by the word of His mouth, causes the seas to meet the shore and go no further than He ordains each day, and provided atonement for our sin.   God needs nothing  from us... nothing.  His kingdom does not change one bit if we decide to keep all our time and money for ourself and our family.   You see, it's not that we HAVE TO give, it's that we GET TO give and be a tiny part of the amazing things He does.


We have seen Paul's great love for the Philippians and his concern for their spiritual journey.  What a comfort for him when Epaphroditus brought gifts and supplies from the Philippians to Paul... he got to see their love and concern for him and for his mission in sharing the gospel.

Want a devoted heart for God?  Invest your time, talent and money in eternal things.   Where you put your treasure, your heart will follow.  Let's invest wisely.