Beyond the Limits of Expectation
Philippians 4: 11-13, 19
Introduction
Paul is in prison in Rome and speaks of the kindness of the Philippians, though what they had done was nothing in comparison to what he deserved. Therefore, it is not old school to take care of your man of God
Discipline – Sophronismos – Meaning Sobering, Self control and sound Mind
1) Manage Your Action 2) Guard Your Attitude 3) Give Your Assets
4: 11 - 14 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress.
4: 11 - 14
Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. I don’t mean that your help didn’t mean a lot to me—it did. It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles.
Vs. 11 – 13 Contentment is not natural to mankind, what’s pleasing to the eye, belly or flesh or accessible, man finds himself worthy to satisfy himself. My attitude of having is the exact same as not having. There is access to adjust my climate control.
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4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
4:19 You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.
Shall - Occurs 9837 Will – Occurs 3837 Maybe - Occurs Ө Times So that goes to say that God promises are connected to his principles. He shall if you will….
a. My God shall supply all your need: The Philippians were not wealthy supporters of Paul, who could easily spare the money.
As Paul described them in 2 Corinthians 8, it is plain that their giving was sacrificial. This promise meant something to them! They gave offerings of whatever they could—far more than they could afford
b. The promise is to supply all your need; but it is all your need. In this, the promise is both broad and yet restricted.
c. The measure of God’s supply is amazing. It is according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Since there is no lack in God’s riches in glory, we should anticipate that there would be no lack in God’s supply.
i. “The rewarding will not be merely from His wealth, but also in a manner that befits His wealth - on a scale worthy of His wealth.” (Martin)
d Promises are made to the Philippians (People) - Who had surrendered their finances and material possessions to God’s service, and Who knew how to give with the right kind of heart.
