"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19)
G. Campbell Morgan used to say, "A text without its context is a pretext!" We have so frequently considered the promise of today's text apart from its context that we may have failed to observe to whom it applies.
This promise comes to people who, though poor, were liberal. It was Paul's policy not to accept offerings for himself, but so desirous were the Philippians to give to him that he had made an exception in their case. Once again they have sent him a gift. Paul regards it as a pleasing sacrifice to God. Thus he exclaims, "My God shall supply your need, since you have supplied mine!"
Remember, then, to whom this promise is made, and the nature of it as well. "My God shall supply all your need." In a world where everybody wants to "keep up with the Joneses" it is not always easy to distinguish between needs and wants! God does not promise that we shall drive the latest and fanciest car, wear the finest clothing, live in the most exclusive section, possess every gadget there is. "All your need." Our trouble is that "having food and raiment we are not content therewith!" Yet these are what God promises!
The supply of needs is "according to God's riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Offerings prompted by commitment to Christ and inspired by His Spirit reap their reward from Him who is "the Lord of glory." Hope for reward, however, must never become our motive in giving. This should be done from "a willing heart," but it is reassuring to "know that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord" (Eph. 6:8).
"Because we love Thee and Thy work,
Our offering now we make;
Be pleased to use it as Thine own,
We ask for Jesus' sake."
(This devotional by Dr. Stuart R. Schimpf)