Experience the Secret (Philippians 4:10-23)
Gearl Spicer, August 15, 2021
Part of the Summer Of Joy - Now More Than Ever series, preached at a Sunday Online service
Philippians 4:10–23 (Listen)
10 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. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 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. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 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. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 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. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
(ESV)
Sermon Notes
Summer Of Joy - Now More Than Ever
Experience the Secret
Philippians 4:10 - 23
8/15/21
How content are you in life?
Contentment opens the door to His strength!
The secret lies in the sufficiency of Jesus!
*Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstanceI have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. vs. 11 - 13
*An my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. vs. 19
Five strategies for accessing the secret:
I. Look beyond circumstances to Christ - v.s 10 - 11
*We can live above any situation by allowing Jesus to rule in all!
II. Balance your blessings with humility - vs.12
*We must choose humility as a way of life!
III. Recognize the true source of strength - vs. 13
*Our strength is elevated as we surrender our lives to Him!
IV. Giving opens the door to contentment - vs. 14 - 18
*Responding to Him in obedience allows blessings to flow from heaven!
V. God meets our needs to His exclusive glory - vs. 19 - 23
*We will be never be in want when our hearts are set on Him!
Will you allow His joy to fill you up?