28
Aug '25
Living and Giving
28
Aug '25
Introduction: Have you ever heard the saying, “Do you’re giving while you’re living, then you’re knowing where it’s going”? The faithful followers of Jesus Christ in the Church of Philippi did just that! They gave not only of their “time” but also of their “treasures.” Are you giving of your time and treasures? Really, it boils down to fully trusting the Lord in our life, which includes finances as well as family. It has been said that you can tell a lot about both a man or woman by how they spend their “time and money.”
What would your personal resume look like if that is the case? At any rate, we can learn much from the latter part of Paul’s inspired letter to the Philippian Church in regards to this subject. Check it out:
1. Give of your SUBSTANCE! (Phil 4:15-17) – “Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. For ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.”
Apparently, the Church had given to the needs of Paul’s ministry several times as he mentions. Because of their generosity, he was able to do the work of the Lord—spreading the gospel. But ultimately, as he reminds them, they would benefit greatly with the blessings of God.
I love the following statement. St. Chrysostom points out that he uses the Greek verb akin to the noun (tokos) meaning interest on money, seems to imply that he, a Greek, understood the phrase to be borrowed from the money-market. If so, we may translate, the interest that is accruing to your credit. Now that says it all! In other words, you cannot go wrong investing in heaven’s bank account! Will you trust Him?
2. Give of your SERVICE! (Phil 4:18) – “But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.”
Paul is saying in essence, “I’ve got the receipt on your NEEDED GIFT!” It was like the summer rain on a scorching hot day. The gift or gifts (perhaps clothes, money, etc.) were greatly appreciated. The comparison was like the sweet smell of beautiful flowers or the fragrance of a special offering.
Can you relate to what he is saying? Have you ever received a gift just in time to relieve your heavy heart? It is SWEET to say the least!!
3. Give of your SELF! (Phil 4:19-20) – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Bottom line: GOD will PAY YOU BACK! That is in one way or another!!
Conclusion: Since we cannot OUT GIVE GOD, OUT SERVE GOD, or OUT LOVE GOD, it stands to reason to be a BLESSING in order to receive a BLESSING!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese