To Be Generous

Our generosity grows with our grasp of the gospel.

1. Think of others before yourself.

“I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.”
— Philippians 4:10

2. Learn to be satisfied in Christ.

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.”
— Philippians 4:11–14

Contentment is a gracious, inward condition of the heart by which we say in faith…

- God has me where he has me
- God has has given me what he has given me
- According to God’s love and wisdom, this is what is best for me today,
- And by God’s power in Christ, I can live faithfully in this season.

The choice to be generous is first a choice to be satisfied in Christ.

Philippians 4:13 is not a promise of grand achievement; it is a promise of guaranteed endurance.

3. Partner in giving to gospel mission and ministry.

“And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.”
— Philippians 4:15–16

One of the primary ways we live out partnership in the gospel is by regularly giving to the mission and ministry of the church.

4. Remember the blessings of giving.

“Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God."
— Philippians 4:17–18

You will produce fruit (vs. 17)

You will please God (vs. 18)

Giving is not merely a financial decision; its a gospel decision.

5. Rest in God’s promise of provision.

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
— Philippians 4:19–20