Daily Bible Plan - Philippians 4

09. July 2025

Devotion by Reverend Joseph Antwi

Theme: Living your Faith in the Public Sphere

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

Devotional Title: Giving That Pleases God — A Lesson from Paul

Scripture Anchor:

“How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me… Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have… For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

— Philippians 4:10–13 (NLT)

(Full passage: Philippians 4:10–23)

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Devotion:

Sometimes, people wrongly assume that ministers or servants of God do not need any financial blessing—because, after all, they work for God. But Paul the Apostle addresses this clearly in his letter to the Philippians. While emphasizing his contentment in every circumstance, Paul also boldly acknowledges and appreciates the financial support he received from the church at Philippi.

He says:

“Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent me help more than once… I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.”

— Philippians 4:16–17 (NLT)

This is a crucial principle: Giving is for the giver’s benefit, not the receiver’s survival. Paul makes it clear that although he had the right to be supported, he did not demand it. He worked as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3), reflecting a bivocational ministry approach, yet he still taught that it is biblical to support spiritual leaders materially.

“If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?”

— 1 Corinthians 9:11 (NKJV)

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Post-COVID: A Shift in Giving Culture

Since 2020, when the world experienced a massive reset and transitioned heavily to the digital space, businesses like Amazon and other tech companies flourished. But many ministries and ministers struggled—not because the church lost its voice, but because many believers misunderstood the moment.

The digital era exposed both false and true ministries. It gave room for the spirit of the antichrist to operate visibly in culture, and it challenged the church’s values. Many believers began to view giving to a man of God or to the church with suspicion, while continuing to spend lavishly on entertainment, celebrities, and worldly interests.

But giving, according to Scripture, is a spiritual act of worship, and God still honors cheerful, faith-driven generosity.

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Five Biblical Channels of Giving

There may be other valid channels of giving, but here are five biblical channels that I believe the Lord has laid on my heart to share with you today. These are not separate from giving to God—they are all ways of giving unto God, as each one is rooted in obedience to His Word:

1. Giving to Your Family

“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives… he has denied the faith.”

— 1 Timothy 5:8

Caring for your family, especially in times of need, is an act of love, faith, and obedience.

2. Giving to the Church

“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple.”

— Malachi 3:10

Supporting your local church enables the continued preaching of the gospel and community impact.

3. Giving to Your Man of God / Pastor

“The one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.”

— Galatians 6:6

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor…”

— 1 Timothy 5:17

Honoring your spiritual leader through giving is not about enriching them—it is about honoring the God who sent them and unlocking divine blessing.

4. Giving to Fellow Believers in Need

“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

— Romans 12:13

“All the believers were together and had everything in common… they gave to anyone who had need.”

— Acts 2:44–45

Giving to brothers and sisters in Christ who are struggling reflects the unity and love of the body of Christ.

5. Giving to the Poor

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them.”

— Proverbs 19:17

Giving to those in need reflects the compassionate heart of the Father.

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Why Should You Give?

Giving activates a spiritual cycle. When you give in faith and obedience, you position yourself for God’s blessing.

“Give, and it will be given to you: a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”

— Luke 6:38 (NIV)

Paul declared:

“At the moment I have all I need—and more! … They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches…”

— Philippians 4:18–19 (NLT)

Giving isn’t just about what the church or pastor needs—it’s about what God wants to release into your life through your obedience.

“I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.”

— Philippians 4:17 (NLT)

I, your pastor, did not share this devotion because I need anything from you, but because it’s part of our Christian obligation—and for your own blessing and reward.

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🎉 Congratulations! We have just finished the book of Philippians. Each day, we’re growing deeper in the Word and stronger in faith. Let’s continue to walk boldly with Christ—our source of joy and strength! ❤🔥🥳