The Fruit of Sacrificial Giving

Philippians 4:10-20 ESV

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I 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. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Paul had received a gift from the Philippians. They had already help him in his ministry, but had at other times were unable to. They were finally able to finance him some more, but it came through a great sacrifice by the Philippians.

Paul explains that it is not money where he finds contentment, but in the Lord. And knowing their sacrifice assures them that God will take care of their every need.

Verse 17 is what I find incredible – Paul tells the Philippians that he wasn’t anticipating the gift that they gave him, but the increase in their fruit, their ministry, because they did give.

And that is what I ponder: Does my ministry increase every time I give? Giving to the ministry is doing good, but it also helps us to depend on God rather than ourselves. Do you take the opportunity to let your fruit increase?