(Philippians
4:11-13) “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to
be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I
know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in
any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty
or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
I recently had some t-shirts made for the ministry with Phil 4:13 and the words “Jesus
Strong” on the back. We are doing and
serving in the name of Jesus for God’s glory.
Just like we are to live our everyday lives – every Christian not just
some.
Many
if not most of the Christians I meet are discontented. Life has not gone their way – the way they had
planned. Problems at work – problems in
the family – problems with their health – money – at church – in their
relationships. We all would like to live
the care-free life on earth – but it is not going to happen. Even those who have made it big – financially
– are discontented. It would seem the
finding and staying content is impossible.
Well … it is.
It
is if you are looking to the world, your circumstances and other people to find
it and keep it. Paul’s view toward life
on earth was seen through the prism of his faith. It did not matter what happened – good or bad
– plenty or wanting – he was content by virtue of his faith not his
circumstances.
The
Word of God is the Truth and as 2 Timothy 3:16 says – it is profitable for
Christians because it shows us how to live our new life in an old world by
faith – not dependent upon our circumstances.
It
is easy to become bitter and cynical if you count on the “world” to bring
contentment. Contentment is a heart
condition brought on by faith. If you are not content you have a faith problem –
it does not matter what your circumstances are.
Listen – we all struggle with it – but we can do all things through
Christ who gives us strength. CHARLEY
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