Philippians 4:10
ESV
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.
NIV
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.
NASB
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked an opportunity to act.
CSB
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it.
NLT
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me.
KJV
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.
NKJV
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity.
What does Philippians 4:10 mean?
Paul transitions here to a focus on God's provision, in a passage running through verse 20. He begins with his recurring theme of rejoicing. Paul's initial reason for writing this letter was to thank the readers for a recent financial gift, which Epaphroditus had brought to Rome. The generosity of the Philippian Christians was consistent and much appreciated by Paul (Philippians 1:3–7).He recognizes that the Philippians have an ongoing and sincere interest in his well-being. Paul knew about their support for him, regardless of whether they sent additional financial help. He stresses this further by recognizing that prior to this gift, there had not been a recent opportunity to give financial support. More than likely, the Philippians had no one to take a gift to Paul until Epaphroditus left to visit him in Rome. It was only then that these believers had a safe way to send support to Paul during his time under house arrest.
