After Missions Weekend, we returned to Philippians 4 and considered a sobering question: If the Lord returned today, what fruit would be found on our account?
As Paul thanks the believers at Philippi for supporting his ministry, he reminds them that his greatest desire was not the gift itself, but "fruit that may abound to your account." Their generosity allowed them to participate in the work of the gospel and invest in something that would outlast this life.
Throughout Philippians, Paul repeatedly calls believers to unity, humility, contentment, and gospel-minded living. The goal is not our preferences, our recognition, or our comfort. The goal is Christ and the furtherance of His gospel.
Paul had learned to be content whether he had much or little, whether he was free or under arrest. What mattered was faithfully serving Christ wherever God had planted him. Even while under house arrest, Paul continued sharing the gospel, and believers were added from Caesar's household.
The challenge for every believer is the same. The Lord has placed us where we are for a purpose. Whether through serving in the local church, encouraging other believers, supporting missionaries, praying faithfully, or sharing the gospel ourselves, we have opportunities every day to invest in eternity.
One day we will stand before Christ. The question is not what we accumulated for ourselves, but what was done for Him. May we be united together, humble enough to serve, and faithful in the work God has given us while there is still time.