The Riches You Can’t See
When you are in the middle of learning the hard lessons, it sometimes feels like it isn’t worth it. But unless you all the way through the hard lesson, then you may miss out on the strength and character that is given to you as a result.
There are hard lessons in most every area of life. Work, marriage, raising children, caring for our elderly parents, work transitions, and of course, our finances. If you want to experience spiritual maturity, the pathway most often comes through learning and growing through the hard lessons of life.
As Paul finished his letter to the Philippians, he expressed his joy that this church had once again shown him concern. They had sent a gift that would serve to help in Paul’s ministry. Paul was quick to say that he was not in personal need. In fact, he said that he had learned a hard lesson himself: “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” He went on to explain that he had experienced the bottom, and he had been on the top side of God’s goodness as well. And he had learned the secret to getting through every situation:
“I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
First century Christians apparently were not that different than we are. They, and we, tend to measure success in terms of our bank and investment accounts. When the balances are high, we feel good, and when we spend too much or the market drops, then we quickly become discouraged. Knowing this, Paul used the language of accounting to make his point.
Paul explained again that he did not seek a gift from the Philippians for his benefit, but rather he did it for their benefit: “Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more.” Paul was clear that the fruit or interest would be credited to the ones who gave from their resources. This is so important. When we write the check that helps the church or mission do its work, while our bank account might experience a reduction for some period of time, God uses that moment to credit us with fruit. We might see the fruit now or we might see it later, but God sees it and makes note of the investment we made for others.
As Paul continued, he called the gifts that had been given a “fragrant offering, a sacrificial offering that is pleasing to God.” When we give to the church, the mission, the nonprofit, or the individual, God is pleased. And not only is God pleased, but Paul also said, “God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
It is a hard lesson to learn to trust God and be content in every situation. But as we learn this lesson, God promises that he makes an entry in his accounting system and he promises to meet our every need in Christ Jesus.
Father, expand our hearts to move more and more toward generosity. Thank you for your precious promise that you will meet our every need. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your Time with God’s Word
Philippians 4:10-20 ESV
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