MARCH 30, Philippians 4:14-18

The church of Philippi had been taking care of Paul since his stay in Macedonia. Gifts were also sent to Thessalonica to meet his physical needs. Now in Rome, they had continued to send gifts and even sent Epaphroditus to look after him in prison.

Paul was gladdened not only by the church’s act of giving but by all their righteous deeds. They were sharing his burden in the gospel ministry and in empathizing with his afflictions and sufferings. Paul was grateful for their gifts and their preaching of Christ and he expressed his gratitude in words. He commended them on their generosity. In encouragement, he told them that their gifts are “an odour of a sweet smell and their sacrifice was acceptable and pleasing to God.”

Paul was not encouraging the church so that they might continue sending him more gifts in future. He was encouraging them to continue bearing fruit for the ministry. It was his greatest desire to see spiritual growth in his spiritual children. He was yearning for such blessings from God.

Children, when you receive a gift or help, do you remember to say Thank You? It would be an encouragement to the giver. Do you also remember to thank God for all His grace and mercy every day? God will be delighted with your gratitude.

Think of some of the things you have forgotten to thank God for.
Write them down and give thanks:

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Thought: A grateful heart pleases God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to be grateful and thankful for all that Thou has provided for me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.