Turn your eyes to others

"Yet you did well to take part in my distress. You know it yourself, Philippians... When I left Macedonia, no Church took into account with me what she was giving and receiving ; you were the only ones to do it, for you sent me already to Thessalonica, and twice, enough to provide for my needs. It is not that I seek the gifts ; but I seek the fruit that abounds on your account ... And my God will provide all your needs according to his riches, with glory, in Jesus Christ. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever" (Philippians 4: 14-20).

As a Christian, we often think of generosity. We plan and give generously to our families, our spouses, our friends, our neighbors, our church and other charities. But Paul spoke of this in the context of a secret - a secret that some people do not know : the power of generosity.

Paul said : "I never looked for the gift you gave me. I have always looked for the thing I see at work in you when you give me."

Do you see the difference here ? He could have said : "Those fifty dollars you gave me will allow me to buy me for three weeks. Thank you Lord !"

I'm sure he was also grateful for that, but do you know what was going on in his head ? He thought : "Thank God ! The gospel is at work in you because you are no longer centered on yourselves. You no longer live in anxiety, keeping your belongings for yourselves. You do not even live in division with each other. You are giving ! You live your life by focusing on something other than yourself and doing things you would never do if the gospel had not taken root in your heart."

Gary Wilkerson