Monday of the 21st week after Pentecost

Brethren, I rejoiced greatly in the Lord, that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my affliction. Now you Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the Gospel, when I departed from Macedónia, no Church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but only you. For even in Thessaloníca you sent aid once and again unto my necessities. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphrodítus the things which were sent from you, a sweet-smelling fragrance, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. All the saints salute you, but especially those who are of Cæsar’s household. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

Brethren, He who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. So let each man give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, have an abundance for every good work. As it is written: “He hath dispersed abroad, He hath given to the poor; His righteousness remains forever.” Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causes through us thanksgiving to God.