August 04 2026

Tuesday August 04

To God Be the Glory!

Philippians 4:20

Welcome to Pastor's Chat. Today we come to Philippians 4:20, a beautiful doxology that concludes Paul's teaching on giving and God's faithful provision. Paul writes: "Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." What a wonderful way to end this section! Paul has spoken about the Philippians' generosity. He has thanked them for their sacrificial gift. He has reminded them that their offering was "an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God." Then he gave them one of the greatest promises in all of Scripture: "But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

Now, before moving on to his final greetings, Paul lifts his eyes toward heaven and gives all the glory to God. Isn't that the way it should always be? Whenever God works, whenever He provides, whenever He answers prayer, whenever He blesses His people, the glory belongs to Him alone.

Notice how Paul describes Him: "God and our Father." This is not merely the Creator of the universe or the sovereign Ruler of all things, although He certainly is. Through Jesus Christ, He has become our Father. Jesus taught His disciples to pray, "Our Father which art in heaven." What a privilege! The God who created the stars, who spoke the universe into existence, who owns the cattle on a thousand hills, invites us to come to Him as beloved children.

Because He is our Father, He knows our needs before we ask. Because He is our Father, He loves us with an everlasting love. Because He is our Father, He disciplines us when necessary. Because He is our Father, He delights in providing for His children. No wonder Paul had such confidence when he wrote, "My God shall supply all your need." Then Paul says, "be glory for ever and ever." The word glory speaks of honor, praise, majesty, and worship. It is the recognition of who God is and what He has done.

Throughout Scripture, God's people are continually called to glorify Him. In 1 Corinthians 10:31 Paul writes: "Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God." Our greatest purpose in life is not simply to be successful, comfortable, or prosperous. Our greatest purpose is to glorify God. That is why we were created. That is why we were redeemed. That is why we have been left here on earth. Everything we do should point others to Him.

As I reflect on our recent mission trip to Guatemala, I cannot help but think of this verse. Yes, we are thankful for the many home visits, the public school programs, the church services, the encouragement shared with pastors and church leaders, the wonderful unity among our team, and the excellent partnership with our national brothers and sisters in Christ. But none of those things are ultimately about us. They are about God.

He opened the doors. He gave the strength. He provided the opportunities. He protected us throughout our travels. He prepared hearts to receive His Word. He deserves all the glory.

That is the attitude Paul demonstrates here. Even after receiving a generous gift from the Philippians, he does not magnify the givers. He magnifies God. May that always be true in our lives. When someone thanks us for serving, let us remember to give glory to God. When He answers prayer, let us give glory to God. When He provides our needs, let us give glory to God. When He blesses our families, our churches, or our ministries, let us give glory to God.

Finally, Paul concludes with one simple but powerful word: "Amen." That word means, "So be it." It is a declaration of confidence and agreement. Paul is saying, "This is true. This is certain. This is worthy of our wholehearted affirmation." As we finish this section of Philippians, let us remember the beautiful progression Paul has given us. God's people give generously. God receives their gifts as an act of worship. God faithfully supplies every need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. And God alone receives all the glory forever and ever. That is the Christian life in its simplest form: we receive everything from His hand, we use it for His kingdom, and we return all the praise to Him.

Let's pray. Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your amazing grace and Your faithful provision. Thank You for being not only our Creator but also our loving Father through the Lord Jesus Christ. Forgive us for the times we have sought recognition for ourselves instead of giving glory to You. Help us to live each day in such a way that others will see Your goodness, Your faithfulness, and Your love. May everything we do bring honor to Your holy name. For Yours is the glory forever and ever. Amen.

God bless, and you have a wonderful, wonderful day.