Keith's Messages

Today we wrap up our series on Philippians with some unexpected results. In the end of the book Paul gives his blueprint for living as a result of the monetary gift sent to him by the Philippian church. Paul’s personal situation was tough. But he is not the victim of circumstances but the victor over circumstances: I can accept all things (Phil. 4:11); “I can do all things” (Phil. 4:13); I have all things (Phil. 4:18). Paul did not have to be pampered to be content; he found his contentment in the spiritual resources abundantly provided by Christ. Contentment is not escape from the battle, but rather an abiding peace and confidence in the midst of the battle. “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” (Phil. 4:11). Two words in that verse are vitally important—“learned” and “content.”   The verb “learned” means “learned by experience.” Paul’s spiritual contentment was not something he had immediately after he was ...