Slideshow image

Learned Contentment

 

Philippians 4:11-12 - Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 

The Apostle Paul had to learn to be content – it was a discipline he had to acquire. And this was accomplished by trusting God in the internal and external struggles of life. Not only through the beatings, imprisonments, shipwrecks, dangers, and other physical trials he experienced, but also in his own personal struggles against sin, fear, and discouragement.

In our world, we are often told that certain products or experiences will make us happy. But the truth is that true contentment is learned. And just like Paul, we learn it through trusting God with all our struggles.

You have the power to respond to any situation, not merely react to it. You can choose to be content by expressing your confidence in God’s sustaining provision and perfect plan no matter what happens. The Holy Spirit in you will always enable you to confront a problem with faith and wisdom if you will trust Him,

From – “Jesus, Our Perfect Hope” by Charles F. 

Stanley