There is an awesome truth recorded in Philippians 4:17 that many very easily pass right by it. Paul uses commercial language to describe “giving and receiving” (credit and debit) between the Philippians and himself.
During Paul’s second missionary journey, the Philippian Christians contributed to his ministry with gifts, in fact, Paul says they were the only contributors. For a period of time, the Philippians had not contributed, not because they were lacking in concern, but they lacked opportunity. At the time of this writing (the book of Philippians), Paul is in prison and has received a gift from the Philippian Christians. Paul is genuinely appreciative for the gifts but is not ultimately dependent on them. Their gifts involves them (the Philippians) in Paul’s troubles. (A person’s gift to the Lord involves them in Kingdom work). Paul says to the Philippian Christians; “You gave and gave.” Please watch this: The “investment value” of the Philippians gift is not primarily what Paul received, but the “spiritual dividends” they received. To the Corinthian Christians, Paul says “God loveth a cheerful giver” (II Corinthians 9:7 [b]). We do not “give to get,” however, there is the “Godly Recompense:” “Give, and I shall be given unto you: good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (Luke 6:38) Let me ask you, what is your “investment value?” Are you receiving “Spiritual dividends” into your Kingdom Account? Are you glad to receive them?
Pastor J. Amos Jones
