The Secret I Have Learned

You sent me a gift, and my heart overflows. "I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me" (Philippians 4:10) — for I know you cared all along; you simply had no opportunity. But hear what I say next, lest you mistake my joy: "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content" (Philippians 4:11). I did not learn this in a lecture hall. I learned it in hunger and in plenty, brought low and abounding, and I write it now with a chain on my wrist: "I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need" (Philippians 4:12).

And here is the whole of the secret, small enough to carry and strong enough to hold you: "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). Not that I am strong — that I am joined to One who is, and his strength is poured into my weakness as I have need of it. This is not a promise that you will prosper; it is a promise that in whatever state you are, Christ will be enough. The plenty cannot spoil a man who has learned this, and the want cannot break him.

Yet do not think, because I am content, that your kindness meant little. "It was kind of you to share my trouble" (Philippians 4:14). I remember: when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me but you alone (Philippians 4:15). I do not seek the gift itself; "I seek the fruit that increases to your credit" (Philippians 4:17). What you gave, you gave to God — "a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God" (Philippians 4:18). So when you help a servant of Christ, or feed the hungry, or open your hand to a brother in need, know that heaven receives it as worship.

And now the word I most want to leave in your hands: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). Not according to what you have, but according to his riches. Not your need as you name it, but every need as he sees it — and the measure is his glory, which does not run dry. So then, "to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen" (Philippians 4:20).

Live today as one supplied. Give without fear, for the God who counts your gifts will not fail to fill your lack. And whatever your state — plenty or hunger, ease or the cold edge of winter — learn the secret with me: Christ is your strength, and he is enough. "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit" (Philippians 4:23).