1. In this verse the apostle Paul assured the Christians in Philippi that God would supply all their needs. 2. This same assurance is expressed in many other passages, including: a. Ephesians 1:3 b. James 1:17 c. 2 Peter 1:3. 3. In our lesson we are pointing out 5 special needs that God supplies His children. Discussion: I. GOD SUPPLIES "INSTRUCTION" (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
A. In His Word God supplies the teaching, the reproof, the correction, and the instruction in righteousness that we desperately need. B. According to Psalm 119:11, having God's Word in our hearts will help us when we are tempted. C. It certainly helped Jesus when the devil tempted Him (Matthew 4:1-11). D. Let us study the Scriptures and meditate upon them regularly (Psalm 119:97). II. GOD SUPPLIES "DIRECTION"
A. In Psalm 23:3 David said: "He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." B. To receive direction from God we must comply with certain conditions that are listed in Proverbs 3:5-6. III. GOD SUPPLIES "ASSISTANCE WHEN WE ARE TESTED"
A. God will provide a way for us to bear up under trials (1 Corinthians 10:13). B. When trials come our way He wants us to pray (1 Peter 5:7). C. We need to pray for wisdom, and God will provide it (James 1:5-6). D. We can also receive mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16). IV. GOD SUPPLIES "COMFORT" IN TIMES OF SORROW (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) V. GOD SUPPLIES "ASSURANCE THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD"
A. This assurance is declared in Romans 8:28. B. This assurance is only available to "those who love God" and "those who are the called." Conclusion:
1. This is not a complete list of needs that God supplies His children. 2. The 5 needs that we have examined are very special. 3. During times when your faith is tested, do you remain confident that God will supply these needs? 4. Let us always remain confident that: a. God supplies instruction for us in His Word b. God supplies direction for us c. God supplies assistance for us d. God supplies comfort for us during times of sorrow e. God supplies assurance that He will work all things together for our good. 5. The same apostle that wrote Philippians 4:19 also taught the people in Philippi how to become God's children (Acts 16:14-15, 30-34).