John Calvin Commentary Philippians 4:11

"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content." — Philippians 4:11 (ASV)

Not that I speak with respect to want: here we have a second correction, by which he guards against it being suspected that his spirit was fainthearted and broken down by adversities. For it was important that his constancy and moderation should be known by the Philippians, to whom he was a pattern of life. Accordingly, he declares that he had been pleased by their generosity in such a way that he could at the same time endure want with patience. Want refers here to a state of mind, for that person can never be poor in mind who is satisfied with the lot God has assigned him.

In what state I am, he says, that is, “Whatever my condition may be, I am satisfied with it.” Why? Because saints know that in this way they please God. Therefore, they do not measure sufficiency by abundance, but by the will of God, which they discern from what takes place, for they are persuaded that their affairs are regulated by His providence and good pleasure.