Again unto My Necessity Philippians 4:16

As Paul the apostle remembered the times when the Philippians cared for his afflictions, he began to recall certain examples of when they ministered to him. There was no other church that gave to him like the Philippian church, and in chapter four and verse sixteen of his letter to them he recounts another time in the city of Thessalonica when they again supported him. We read:

For even in Thessalonica you sent once and again unto my necessity.

The verse begins, “For even in Thessalonica...” When we read in the book of Acts chapter seventeen, we see the account of Paul entering into the city of Thessalonica and sharing the gospel there. However, Paul had to leave the city because some of the leaders of the Jews caused an uproar. Somehow the Philippians knew where he was and sent some sort of care package to him.

The verse continues, “...you sent once and again unto my necessity.” Let us notice that Paul recalls “once and again” which means “once and twice” that the Philippians ministered “unto my necessity” or “need, duty or business”. Not only did the Philippian church members care for Paul on one occasion, but they sought and fulfilled further opportunities to give to Paul's needs.

As we consider Paul's example, we may be drawn to think about the times when we have supported someone who was in the ministry. Did we think that one time was sufficient, or have we supported them over and over again? Paul's commendation of the Philippian church is an inspiration and stimulation for us to remember those who are working to share the gospel in the world. Their needs continue as did Paul's, and our continual ministry to them allows them to be as Paul was – busy about the work of the Kingdom of God. May the Lord Jesus help us to remember them, and then do something about it when we do.

Next time Paul recalls the time when the Philippians helped in Thessalonica, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

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