Philippians 4:20
Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Philippians 4:20
Paul closes with a doxology: glory to God the Father forever. This high, worshipful cadence frames all preceding instructions as grounded in God’s eternal majesty and faithfulness. The doxology reframes life—relationships, provision, and mission—within the larger reality of God’s glory. In Philippians, which speaks often of joy and partnership, this verse anchors joy in God’s sovereign purpose and eternal praise. It also subtly reminds readers that all supplies, all partnerships, and all fruit point back to God’s glory and sovereignty.
Glorifying God is the telos—the end purpose—of all creation and redemptive activity. The opening and closing doxologies in Paul’s letters emphasize the continuity of life with worship. This verse teaches that Christian life is worshipful service that culminates in praise to the Triune God.
Live with an ongoing posture of worship. Let gratitude for God’s provision translate into acts that reflect his glory—loving neighbors, serving the vulnerable, dreaming up new ways to advance the gospel, and speaking truth and grace in daily conversations. In moments of success, give credit to God; in moments of scarcity, trust and worship. Let your decisions be guided by whether they honor God’s name and advance his purposes.
Cross-References: Rom 11:36; Heb 13:15; 1 Cor 10:31; Rev 4:11