Philippians 4:14

“Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction”

“Howbeit”: Even though Paul could be content in meager circumstances, he does not want his readers to infer that their gift has therefore been useless or unappreciated. “If the Philippian readers got the impression that some modern commentators get, that Paul is saying, ‘Thank you for your gift, but it really wasn't necessary,' Paul removes any impression of ungraciousness on his part by assuring them again of his grateful appreciation” (Bruce p. 152). Paul allowed Christians to help him and did not feel that such made him less of. Christian. Being God-sufficient also includes allowing God to use His people to care for your needs. Some want. Christianity where they are not obligated or do not feel obligated to anyone. Such. relationship with God and brethren is not taught in the Scriptures. Paul could graciously accept help, because he already viewed himself as. debtor to all men (Romans 1:14). Human relationships involve debts that can never be paid in full (Romans 13:8; Galatians 6:1).

It is refreshing to see that Paul could be content with less, but he did not have to remain in humble circumstances to "look spiritual". Paul realized that faithfulness is not inherently connected to one's lot in life. Paul did not operate under any of the following false assumptions: “I'm really poor, therefore. must be right with God” or “I am suffering more than you and that proves that. am. better Christian”.

“Ye did well”: “Excellently, nobly. Paul's straightforward commendation is the best kind of thanks” (Lenski pp. 891-892). Compare with Mark 14:6. Notice, we can "do well" (Acts 17:11). Offering service that is pleasing to God and doing the right thing is not an impossible task. Have the right attitude and you'll end up doing the right thing. “Ye had fellowship with my affliction”: “They helped him to carry his burden by means of their material gift and so they had. share in alleviating his hardship in captivity” (Muller p. 148). The Philippians could do nothing to change the fact that Paul was in prison, yet they could do something. Often we think that if we cannot change the circumstances, then there is nothing we can do. We forget about what some would call the "little things", things that Jesus said were very important (Matthew 25:31). Instead of wanting to do everything, we need to realize what we can do right now. In many instances we will not be able to completely remove someone's pain, trial, or difficult circumstances, but we can do something that might make their burden just. little lighter (Galatians 6:2). The faithful child of God does not need. smooth path, but. little encouragement and refreshment along the way is greatly appreciated (Colossians 4:11).