Spiritual & Material!
"I am full, having received from
Epaphroditus
the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling
aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing
to God."
Philippians 4: 18
When ending a conversation with a friend who is in
the midst of a difficult situation, we often say, “I’ll be
praying for you.” That’s good; we should pray for
those who are experiencing a season of difficulty.
But often a time of trouble disrupts life’s normal
routines. So there is more we can do in addition
to praying. Instead of asking, “How can I help?”
take care of obvious needs that must be met.
When Apostle Paul was under house arrest in
Rome, the Philippian church sent provisions to
him. They had done so before, multiple times,
when he
was in need in Thessalonica also
(Philippians 4:15-16).
We don’t know what they sent—food,
clothing, funds — but whatever it was,
it reminded Paul that God is always able
to meet our needs, often through
fellow
believers (Philippians 4:19).
When possible, tend to the material and
physical needs, as well as spiritual needs,
of those going through a difficult time.
"Love is
service
rather than sentiment."
John R. W. Stott