“Strength and Contentment Regardless of Circumstances”

Philippians 4:10-20 Nov.4, 2007  Play AUDIO (mp3)  Play VIDEO (wmv)

Surfing the Waves of Life’s Variables: How to Stay on Top?

 ○     economic / health troubles challenging
 ○     Paul had seen plenty, want, hunger himself (12)

Paul’s Secret Source of Inner Strength

 ○     learned secret of being content: part of discipleship training (11)
 ○     Christ gives strength, ‘en-dynamoes’ me (13; Is 40:29, 41:10; 2Cor 12:9; Heb 13:6; Jn 15:5)

Strength to Overcome - and Make a Comeback

 ○     pitcher Dave Dravecky made dramatic comeback, then became amputee
 ○     until Jesus gives us indestructible bodies, provides necessary comfort and strength in suffering (1Cor 15:35-57)

Sacrificial Sharing sparks Rich Reward

 ○     Philippian church had sent Paul aid repeatedly over the years (15f, 10)
 ○     even though their own condition was ‘extreme poverty’ (2Cor 8:1ff)
 ○     generosity despite scant resources ‘fragrant offering / sacrifice’ (18; Eph 5:2)
 ○     their account credited: Lord will pay back those kind to the poor (17; Prov 19:17; Mt 10:42; Lk 14:14)
 ○     God supplies the needs of givers through Christ’s glorious riches (19; Eph 3:16; Rom 9:23)

Giving the Best

 ○     ‘untouchable’ children in India declined chance to give second-hand gifts