Philippians 4:18I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
It's really dangerous to take a scripture out of context. I know that we should claim and profess the promises of God's word, but what happens when we claim something that isn't ours to claim? Here is a very good example of me doing just that. In Philippians 4:18, Paul talks about how he received the gifts that the Philippians sent. What they sent Paul is noted as an offering to God. Paul encourages them by saying that God will supply their every need according to the abundant (rich) glory in Jesus. So, God will supply to give Jesus the glory. This is a verse (Phil 4:19) that I was previously trying to memorize out of context. I stand corrected.
The name it and claim it, prosperity movement is a dangerous one. I refuse to get caught up in it, and yet, I do not want my faith to be cut short because of my prejudice. Paul is talking specifically about the Philippians' offering. Basically, they tithed to Paul, or actually more specifically, they sent him support. Paul knew that since they were willing to give to God for His will and work, that God would provide for all their needs for the sake of Jesus' glory. Prior to reading this scripture in context, I assumed that Philippians 4:19 meant that God will just provide for all my needs out of His abundant riches. In other words, I was entitled to my needs being met. This is not true. Well, to be more specific, it is only half true, and half-truths are still lies. From now on, I know that God only provides to glorify Himself through Jesus Christ. I do not deserve this, nor can I earn it. God does this for whomever He wills.
Heavenly Father, please forgive me for distorting scripture to fit my desires. Lord, I seek the truth. Please continue to reveal to me the whole truth and keep me from being complacent in studying Your word. Thank You for Your will. Thank You for Your abundant provision according to Your will and glory. May I never expect You to bless me. I know that You do take care of those who bring glory to You and Your Son, Jesus, but for me to claim that for myself is presumptuous. May it be far from me to think that I deserve Your grace, Your blessings, and Your love. I pray for humility for myself. Thank You for my husband, my baby boy, this home we are living in, my family, my friends, the church I go to, and the food and drink I am able to consume everyday. Thank You for the life You have given to me. May I use it to bring You all the glory. In the glorious name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment