But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 KJV
It is easy to claim the blessing of provision as contained in today's extract, but what of the r1QA'edaaqa+q2plesponsibility of giving and being a blessing first of all? We love the feel of God being the supplier of all needs, but what about the deep consciousness of what God needs from me if what He is to give me is to last?
Let's look at the context: the Philippian church had been constantly meeting the needs of Paul. He was on assignment for God and God was raising up people to meet His need. First of all, before you make a claim on provision, make sure that the vision you are pursuing is initiated by God and sustained by Him. After all, provision is the appropriate measure of substance and presence PRO and FOR the VISION that God has divinely inspired.
The Philippian church gave over and over again, not because they wanted to be known and applauded, but because they understood the reason behind the giving. Why do you do whatever it is you do: for recognition, fame, power or position? What inspires you to give of yourself or substance to other people? Before I seek to claim, can I first sort out my allegiance and commitment to God first? Giving becomes a chore when its foundation is not based on a personal knowledge and experience of the God of provision.
No wonder then that Paul refers to it as MY GOD. The one making the pronouncement also matters. If you sow into the wrong ground, it doesn't matter how loud you shout: "I receive". As long as the ground is not set up to receive seed, there can be no expectation of reaping. It is therefore quite important to again check out my ground. What state is it in? Paul knew the God he served, and knew that if he continued to serve right, all that he needed would be made available.
And the resources of heaven are limitless. No demand on earth can exhaust the resources of heaven. If Christ could be given as God's greatest gift to man, there is nothing else that God wouldn't give. In Christ, I stand to inherit all the riches his death and life have secured for me. So, which God do you know? Which God have you met? The one Paul knew and served, or the one I have made up in my own heart? Remember, if you will last the distance, you have to know the God who has everlasting arms. He is able to keep, sustain and guide to the end. Don't just claim; seek to know God. Every other thing you need will be made available. His time of favour is here.
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