The Introduction to the Text
The Introduction to the Text.
"I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well-fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:11-13
"Man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward;" therefore we all need to learn the same lesson as Paul. "I have learned," he said "in whatever state I am, therewith to be content," Philippians 4:11.
Believers, especially, wish to attain to a holy composure in their tribulations and under the stresses caused by our increasingly secular society.
These words are brought in to anticipate and prevent an objection.
The apostle had, in the former verse, laid down many grave and heavenly exhortations: among the rest, "to be anxious for nothing."
Not to exclude: 1. A prudential care; for, he who provides not for his own house, "has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel." (1 Ti.
5:8) Nor, 2. a religious care; for we must give all "diligence to make our calling and election sure." (2 Pe. 1:10) But,
3. to exclude all anxious worry about the outcomes and events of things; "do not be anxious about your life—what you shall eat." (Mat.
6:25) And in this sense it should be a Christian's care not to be anxious. The in the Greek signifies "to cut the heart in pieces," a souldividing worry; take heed of this. We are bid to "commit our way unto the Lord;" (Psalm 37:5) the Hebrew word is, "roll your way upon the Lord." It is our work to cast away anxiety; (1 Pe 5:7) and it is God's work to take care.