08.19

A Precious Promise of God's Provision "By which have been given to us exceedingly great
and precious promises. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in
glory by Christ Jesus. (2 Peter 1:4 and Philippians 4:19)"

In recent meditations, we have looked at two differing categories of promises:
"exceedingly great and precious promises" and "unpopular" promises. Both play a vital role
in God's plan. The first category of promises brings encouragement, comfort, and hope. The
second category warns, convicts, and awakens. Both types are equally certain of
fulfillment. Both types are to be heeded and embraced. For awhile now, let's alternately
consider promises from these two categories.

Our present verses contain a promise of the first type. "And my God shall supply all your
need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." The context of this promise
concerns material provisions. "Now you Philippians know no church shared with me
concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once
and again for my necessities" (Philippians 4:15-16). The saints at the church in Philippi
regularly gave of their financial resources that the Apostle Paul might concentrate on
ministering the gospel. "Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from
Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable
sacrifice, well pleasing to God" (Philippians 4:18). Paul was abundantly supplied through
their gifts. This generosity was also a pleasing spiritual sacrifice in the eyes of the
Lord.

As He did with Paul, the Lord promises to meet the physical needs of all of His children.
We can rely on His promised care for us. We do not need to worry or fret. "Do not worry,
saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after
all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these
things" (Matthew 6:31-32). Our faithful and loving Father is fully aware of our material
needs, and He has committed Himself to supplying them. "But seek first the kingdom of God
and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). Our
heavenly Father wants us to give our attention to seeking after Him, not after our needs.
He wants us to be on a quest to know Him. He desires that we seek after His holy rule and
His righteous ways. He will be faithful to "supply all your need according to His riches
in glory by Christ Jesus." He may typically use a paycheck to fulfill His promise, but He
will supply our needs. Even if we are flat on our backs and unable to work, God is our
faithful source.

"Dear heavenly Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness in supplying my material needs
through the years. Forgive me for doubting You at times, when it looked like the provision
was not coming. Help me to seek You and not my needs, Amen."