Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Philippians 4:19

"And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:19 (ASV)

In words that countless Christians have relied on as one of the great Scripture promises, Paul now reminds his benefactors that “my God” will do what he himself is in no position to do; namely, reimburse his benefactors. This assurance of the divine supply of the Philippians’ needs implies that they had given so liberally that they actually left themselves in some real “need.” Those who share generously with others, especially to advance the work of the Lord, are promised a divine supply of anything they might lack because of their generosity (Proverbs 11:25; Proverbs 19:17; Matthew 5:7).

“According to” conveys the thought that God’s supply of the Philippians’ need will not be merely from his great wealth but in some sense appropriate to or commensurate with it. The source of that supply is the heavenly glorious riches that Christ now enjoys. Small wonder that Paul closes this beautiful passage with a doxology. The glory of God’s providential care must always be recognized by his children. Even the eternal ages yet to come will not be sufficient to exhaust the praises that belong to him.