Gratitude, Contentment and Generosity

Series: The Book of Philippians

Gratitude, Contentment and Generosity

Philippians 4:10-23

Recap

            The church at Philippi was started by Paul.  They financially supported his mission endeavors and had developed an extremely close relationship with him.  When the book is written Paul is 800 miles away in a Roman prison.  After he receives a gift from the church, He writes a letter to thank them and encourage the congregation. 

Gratitude (4:10, 14-16)

Paul was grateful for their gift because...

·      It showed their love for him

·      They were the only ones who had helped

·      They were selfless

Paul avoids 3 pitfalls of saying thank you: manipulation, flattery, and silence.          

Contentment (4:11-13)

Contentment is learned. 

Contentment is internal.

Riches nor Poverty prove your spirituality.   

Possessions, circumstances or success will never provide lasting contentment. 

Contentment is found in focusing on Christ. 

Generosity (17-19)

When we receive from Christ, we have a responsibility to give toward the mission.

Giving brings blessings to the giver and receiver. 

God does not look at amounts; He looks at sacrifice.

God meets the real needs of those who give to Him.

closing thoughts

Only God has a glory that does not fade. 

Faithfulness has a far-reaching impact. 

Grace must bookend all we do. 

Today’s Takeaways: