All -Sufficient God

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 NIV

Placing this in context, reading the verses before the extract above will help understand the import of the above. Paul was busy working, and God was also busy working through Paul to expand his kingdom. However, one lesson Paul's ministry teaches is that your life and service must minister to both the physical and the spiritual needs of people around you. In fact, the physical usually prepares the way for the spiritual. Paul's 'spirituality' did not prevent him from having needs, but his walk with God had taught him dependence on God and sustenance by Him.

Working for God does not equate a life of physical abundance, because that is not his ultimate and primary purpose. God is capable of taking care of both ends, but maybe not in the way, timing and manner we expect him to. However, God expects those who know him to learn how to minister to the needs of other people around them. It is not first about  me having all I need, but that I have an understanding of the all-sufficient God, who has all things in store.

As I give to others, I open the door for more from God. Clearance sales of old stock give room for the new;  even God's mercies are new and fresh every morning. If God can give me brand new blessings everyday, it is assured that he can supply all my needs. The Philippian church didn't have more than enough, but they gave all they could. History records third sacrifice and their giving, not necessarily the size of their gifts, but the spirit with which they gave.

As you face the world, remember, it is a hungry, tired and frustrated world out there. The world is crying out for a difference, a new direction, a new focus. Instead of seeing my needs, can I spare a thought for the great needs I see around me? I may be thinking that what I hold is small, but the story of the 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish teaches that what is important are the hands blessing that small gift, not the size of the gift or the magnitude of the needs around you. When the heart is right, the all-sufficient God shows up with his amazing blessings. His time of favour is here.