SATURDAY January 29, 2022

Sharing With Those in Distress

Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.
Philippians 4:14-15

Paul received a missionary gift from the Philippian church. In their sensitivity toward Paul, they recognized that he had needs, so they took up an offering and sent it to him to alleviate some of his distress.

Paul was so grateful because God had heard his prayers and provided for his needs. He also rejoiced in the Philippians’ renewed interest in the furtherance of the Gospel in Rome. They had once more sent aid for the work of God, and, in helping Paul, they had become a channel of provision––so beautiful. The Philippian church was flourishing like a tree in blossom.

Paul rejoiced in God’s faithfulness in meeting all his needs through the gifts sent to him. Paul never asked for money; he prayed and God touched people’s hearts. I consider him to be the most wonderful missionary, pastor and teacher who ever lived.

God uses churches and people to be channels to bless others. Here at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs we are able to support different people–– some are pastors who would otherwise not make it financially, and others are in need of support on the mission field in South America. This only becomes possible when people, in obedience and in sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, give to the Lord; otherwise, we could not do it.

In particular, churches find themselves in need because of everything that is going on in the world today. God hears their prayers. He will move people’s hearts to give and alleviate their distress.

When a man becomes a Christian, he becomes industrious, trustworthy and prosperous. Now, if that man when he gets all he can and saves all he can does not give all he can, I have more hope for Judas Iscariot than for that man!
~John Wesley~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!