“Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:17-19

As Philippians comes to its conclusion, Paul thanks the church for their generous support, he says that what they give is ‘credited’ to their account (v 17). They are investing in gospel work and partnering closely with Paul. In a very real sense, they share the ‘credit’ for every sermon preached, every person saved, every church planted, every believer discipled. They are buying into a work which offers great and eternal returns. Here are ‘treasures in heaven,’ treasures that will last forever. The Philippians are not losing out through their sacrifice; far from it (vs 18,19). Rather, they are investing in the bank of heaven. Let’s follow their example and speculate to accumulate!

Finance and festivity are not often thought of together, yet the connection is entirely appropriate. The investment Paul is talking about yields great dividends now, with many further returns to come. Where we spend our money reveals much about our true priorities. If someone reviewed our finances, what would they conclude was most important to us?

APPLY

Review your financial giving and, if possible, commit to give more – cheerfully, as an investment for the future. Thank God for the joy which is – and will be – yours.

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord Jesus, thank you that, for the joy set before you, you went to the cross, despising its shame—for me. Thank you for the joy that is mine because of you, for the hope that is mine because of you, for eternal life that is mine because of you.

(Edited from Encounter with God)

* This morning, when I opened my email, I got three emails that said ‘it is your last chance to give before the end of this year’, the words above really encouraged me to give all three organizations: they are Cru, Scripture Union, IMB. I was happy to put the words into practice.