“I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” Philippians 4:18
“The subdued tenor of Paul’s expression of thanks has often been noted. Paul seems to say that while he appreciates the thought, he really didn’t need the money. It is doubtful, however, that Paul seeks to belittle the gift. Rather, he affirms that his friends and their concern for him were more important to him than the money. Since Christ has also been at work supplying Paul’s need, Paul must bear witness to the help he has received from his divine Benefactor, balancing this with the help he receives from his human friends. We should note that the Philippians’ act of generosity toward Paul is also a gift to God, a “fragrant offering…acceptable and pleasing to God.” Although Paul is not in a position to repay the favor, he fully anticipates that God will look with favor on the generous act of God’s children and will remember their good character when they are themselves in need of God’s help. Thus in God’s economy no generous act goes unrewarded, even if the human recipients are unable to return a favor.”
David DeSilva in An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2004) 1530-1531.
I needed this post today. It sums up in words how I feel. GTP went from 243 givers in 53 countries to 416 givers in 70 countries and. God supplied our current needs through His people. Praise the LORD.
This marks what would I love to say to each and every giver around the world: “In God’s economy no generous act goes unrewarded, even if the human recipients are unable to return a favor.”
I am unspeakably grateful, and I am tired after a long day. Actually, I am nearly exhausted after two weeks on the road. And since wisdom says not to post pictures of my work, hear this in words. Remarkable receptivity and fantastic fruits.
Thanks for your prayers. Don’t stop. I have 3 more days of biblical governance training with 75 ministry CEOs. Imagine the impact of 75 ministries raising local funds, following standards of administration, having good governance. They don’t just survive, they thrive.