Pentecost 14 - 2012: Sermon

September 2, 2012 - Sermon from Pentecost 14 "Rejoice! How to Greet Every Situation with Contentment" Philippians 4:10-20 (Summer Series 9 )-Rev. Mark C. Wagner Intro: Usually an "exchange" gets you an equal product, one that's working.  But sometimes the exchange can bring something far better than you ever expected.  Paul had exchanged his former way of life for a new one in Christ.  God's peace resulted also in deep and abiding contentment. 1.  We can (and are to be) satisfied in all situations.  (vs. 10-13)

1. We are not born content.
2. We must learn to regard both poverty and plenty as trials.
3. The Spirit reveals again that we are "bought with a price."
4. God always loves people and generously spends to get it done.

App: Contentment must be redefined.  To know Christ is to know that he has our best interests in mind.  How he chooses to live in and through our lives is our unique discovery.

2.  We can (and have been) supplied in every need.  (vs. 14-20)

1. Paul is far more interested in what their giving does for them than for him.
2. God promises his riches of glory for givers:
   1. source of supply;
   2. limits of supply;
   3. method of supply.
3. He will often answers quite differently than what we've asked.

App: The Philippian letter reminds us that God gives according to, not out of his riches.  As many have discovered, what begins as the greatest disappointment in life can soon blossom into the best of blessings.

Conclusion: These are the superlatives that come to those who are thankful, willing to receive as God gives.  Peace that surpasses understanding, love beyond knowledge, incomprehensible joy, unsearchable riches in Christ, abundant life, unending grace.

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."