What does Philippians 4:12 mean?
Paul continues his discussion on the theme of contentment begun in verse 11. He specifically mentions the range of his ministry experiences, including plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Paul did not speak from theory in this area, but from personal hardships. He had endured much in his service to Christ, including five floggings, three beatings, a stoning, three shipwrecks, and more (2 Corinthians 11:24–29).His comments here are meant to include all of these situations, as well as many others. Under house arrest while writing this letter, he claims to have found the "secret" to enduring these struggles. As mentioned previously, this is a deliberate choice to be content, in the power of Christ. Paul had gone without food at times, and had been given plenty of food at other times. He had lived with much and with little. He had experienced hunger and thirst, was without friends, and more, noted in a letter written long before Philippians (2 Corinthians 11:27–28).
Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences. Paul also thanks the Philippians for their generosity, and expresses his confidence that God will bless them for it.
Paul specifically asks two Christian women, Euodia and Syntyche, to settle their personal dispute. Other Christians are encouraged to act as reasonable, Christ-filled people. Paul notes that his experiences have taught him to be content with whatever material blessings he has. This reliance on the power of Christ not only allows believers to be content, it produces peace in our relationships to other Christians. This also requires a deliberate choice to set our attention on positive things. Paul extends sincere thanks to the Philippians for their generous support.