Most of the time when today’s featured verse is quoted, it’s by someone who is expecting the Lord to fulfill a monetary need. While that is part of the promise, this verse embodies so much more. The word “riches” here means His abundant fullness, peace, joy, love, faith, etc. We need to learn to expect and experience all God has to offer. But how do we do that?

First of all, we need to be more like Paul in finding contentment (a state of peaceful happiness) where we are at any given moment in time. If we read verses 11 & 12 of the same chapter, Paul says that he has learned to be content in whatever situation he finds himself; he knows how to be brought low and abound, he has faced plenty and knows what it’s like to go hungry. In verse 13, he aluminates the fact that he can face anything through Christ who gives him strength. We must ask ourselves whether it is God, or the world, that brings us contentment. 

Let’s look back earlier in this chapter to learn what guidance Paul has for us. He tells us to help those in the ministry; rejoice always, not just when things are good; let everyone know you are a reasonable person; do not be anxious about things; and make your request known to God with prayer and thanksgiving. He further instructs us to think on whatever is honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and anything worthy of praise. When was the last time you gave yourself a heart check? Are you negative or positive? Have you committed totally to God? Do you exemplify these virtues mentioned by Paul? Remember, these are the forerunners to our God supplying all our needs according to His riches in glory. Let’s begin by finding contentment in Him.

Querido Padre Celestial,

I want to begin my time with You today with a confession. You know my heart and the things on which I allow my mind to dwell. I confess (tell Him the areas which you need to confess). Please forgive me for my wrong thoughts, motives, actions, and attitude. Help me to find and live in a state of peaceful happiness that only You can give, regardless of the circumstances in which I find myself. I long to commit to You and exemplify You to everyone around me, and in Your eyes. Thank You for Your faithfulness to me by teaching me this lesson today and helping me to apply it to my life. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

There is so much wisdom to gain from Philippians chapter 4, that it could easily be an entire book on its own. Read this full chapter today and see whether you are in alignment with Paul’s instructions or if there are areas on which you need to work. Write down any weaknesses in these areas and begin working on them now.