But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. — Philippians 4:10 KJV
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. — Philippians 4:10 NIV
Reflection on Verse for Today
Paul was grateful to receive the financial help because he knew that this small group of Christians had not abandoned him while he was away. Instead, they had come together to consider his difficult situation and had shown godly concern for him by setting up a visit from a member of their community to bring him some daily necessities.
Paul was overjoyed not so much because of the value of the present he got but rather because he knew that by rewarding him, these Christians would also be blessed by the Lord. God provided for Paul’s needs through their selfless contribution, and Paul was aware that this act of kindness would increase their blessing now and their recompense in eternity.
God, in His kindness, has also promised to provide all of our needs and has granted us the right to both individual and collective prayer and praise. May we grow in our ability to fully rely on God’s provision and to trust Him in all circumstances so that we no longer feel the need to turn to others for aid with our bills or other requirements of life. And may we grow in the ability to give kindly to others, and may we be glad when the Lord, in His goodness, meets their needs – through the gifts he has given us.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, what a joy it is to remember how Paul found joy in You in every circumstance and saw Your hand of blessing in the things he got from others. Give me a heart of gratitude for those You use to meet my needs, and I hope that You will use me to meet others’ needs, to Your honour and glory. In Jesus’ name, I humbly pray for this.