And with that, let's get into the Word of God.

Philippians chapter 4, our text will be verses 10 through 13.

If you're not there, I'll ask you to turn there.

And once you do, if you're able, I'll ask you to stand.

You can follow along as I read.

If not, where you're seated is fine.

The Apostle Paul is writing to the church there in Philippi, a church that he planted some 10 years prior to this letter.

He writes, by the Spirit, verse 10, I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me.

Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this,

verse 11, because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed

or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. And then verse 13, well-known to to many i can do all this through christ as some of your

translations render it who strengthens me let's pray if you would join with me.

Loving Heavenly Father,

we are so thankful to you for your word in this portion that we have here

before us this morning. But Lord, we're also keenly aware that

unless you, by the Holy Spirit, give us eyes to see and ears to hear and hearts to receive what you have for us today, that our time together

is going to be a complete waste of time.

And I don't think there's a one of us here in this amazing church that I'm so privileged to

pastor that wants our time together to be a waste.

So Lord, will you as only you can speak in that still refining voice of the Holy Spirit.

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