These verses give us a direct view into Paul's biblically balanced heart.  He had great joy knowing that the believers in Philippi cared about him (Philippians 4:14-15), but in other circumstances when Paul suffered alone (2 Timothy 4:17), he found strength and comfort in the Lord.  Human kindness is a wonderful gift in which God works through other people (2 Corinthians 1:3-4), but if we become totally dependent on them we will forget that our sufficiency is of God (2 Corinthians 3:5).  That does not mean that good inter-personal relationships are not important, but we must not be so emotionally reliant on them that our world totally falls apart in their absence.

Emotional responses to people are a fact of human life: God gave them to us, and we are not designed to function properly without them.  However, they can never be the ultimate security for our personality.  Our relationship with God should predominate over every other bond of friendship and love.  Indeed, our personal encounters with God should also have an emotional component (Isaiah 61:10).  We should be glad about His goodness, feel secure in His love and joyful at His provision.  So, when others express their love to us, we will be uplifted and grateful to the Lord for His kindness through them; but when they do not, we are content because we trust in the Lord's love.

Throughout Paul’s letters, he is careful not to manipulate people for his own benefit.  That is especially true with the Philippian church.  He does not boast about himself (Philippians 3:7-11), and does not present himself as a victim of circumstances to get more practical support (Philippians 4:17).  He is writing to encourage them and not to burden them with his needs.  What an example!

Paul maintained this important balance.  He relished the care of the Philippian church, but was not distraught without it.  His normal life was one of contentment.  He knew that God was working everything together for his good (Romans 8:28); however he also joyfully received human kindness, but as a gift from the Lord.  Seeing everything as a gift from God will help you to give Him thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18), neither to despise what comes nor demand what is withheld.  If you embrace that truly Christ-like mindset (Philippians 2:5-8), you will enjoy the Lord's peace.  And your colleagues, friends and family will gain strength from your confidence in the Lord.  So, be God's person in the office, hospital or factory today: show them on the farm, in the laboratory and in the transport industry that the God of peace is with you (Philippians 4:9).