(a) When Paul was preaching the gospel of God to the people of Thessalonica, the Philippians sent him money for his needs on two occasions. This, the Philippians did to reduce his suffering in prison. Paul wrote through Epaphroditus to commend them for their kind gesture. He expressed his gratitude for the aid sent by the Philippians and for their concern for him. Paul in his own way appealed to Christians to give generously as the people of Macedonia did. He showed his appreciation for what the Philippians did by writing to thank them. He also made us to understand that every person would be rewarded according to his manner of giving and that God always help those who give generously.

(b) Situations when a Christian should give are:
(i) When a neighbour is in need
(ii) He should give when he is not expecting anything in return.
(iii) A Christian should donate generously to the development of the society, e.g. during building of schools, hospitals, town halls, churches, etc.
(iv) A Christian should visit motherless homes and give them gifts.