From the archives of Oral Roberts – Second of seven parts
I believe one of the greatest passages in the entire Bible on how to get into biblical prosperity is found in Philippians 4:13–19. That passage begins with one of the most frequently quoted verses of all time: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
The Apostle Paul is describing his potential to the Philippians in that verse. He is saying, “I can rise to the height that God ordained for me. I can do everything God has planned for me with His strengthening power.” Paul is not saying that he has done all things, but that he has the potential to do all things in Christ.
The next verse goes on, however, to say, “notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction (Philippians 4:14).” The word “affliction,” here, means “need.” The Philippians had helped Paul with his needs. Paul is admitting to these fellow believers that he not only has a need, but that he has a need for them. We need each other in the Body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:21, Paul writes that the different members of a body cannot say that they do not need each other. We have to have one another to function as the Body of Christ on this earth.
For years, I have used the word “Partner” to describe the relationship I feel with those who write to me and support this ministry. That’s the way I feel about our work together. I am here to help my Partners ― to encourage them with a word from the Lord, to pray for them, and to preach God’s Word to them. The Abundant Life Prayer Group is here for them. Our television programs are broadcast with the Partners in mind. The literature that we produce and the books we write are to help our Partners. My Partners are the ones who, with their financial gifts and prayers, have supported our television programs and the overseas crusades. My son Richard and I cannot do our work without our beloved Partners.
In order for all of us in the Body of Christ to come into biblical prosperity, we much recognize that we need each other. I don’t believe any of us can reach our potential in Christ without the help of others in the Body of Christ.