Co-Laborers with Giving

Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. (Philippians 1:7)

Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians from a Roman prison, which is what he meant when he said “in my bonds.” That wasn’t a metaphor; it was a real-life difficult situation he was in. However, he didn’t say that the only issue was that he was defending and confirming the gospel. See, Paul was imprisoned under Emperor Nero, who was a ruthless and sadistic ruler who even burned parts of Rome and blamed Christians. He would become one of the greatest persecutors of Christians in history. While some Christians caved and kept their faith silent out of fear of persecution, Paul said that shackles could not keep him quiet.

Amid these trials and hardships, Paul wrote that he thought about the church every day and held them in his heart. This was a covenantal relationship. They had contributed to support him in prison, and he was constantly praying, preaching, and writing these letters to encourage them.

Paul explained that their support was linking them to his grace and rewards from God. They were going to share in the anointing and his spiritual fruit.

Some people may never have the time, training, or opportunity to travel to the mission field and preach to someone in another country, but they can contribute to that cause. When we invest in the ministry that God has given to others, we are connected not only to their support but also to their spiritual benefits. You’re not just funding someone else’s ministry; you are participating in it through support and prayer. The harvest they reap becomes a harvest you share.

Practical Application

Are you a spectator or a participant in what God is doing around the world? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you on where you can intentionally sow to see God’s plan fulfilled.

2 Corinthians 7:3; Ephesians 3:1