Philippians 4:11, 12 - The Secret of Contentment.
Philippians 4:11, 12 (NIV) I am not saying
this because I am in need, for I have learned to
be content whatever the circumstances. 12 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.
INTRODUCTION
Contentment is a gift from God. Possessions
will not bring contentment. We can learn
contentment. Are you content in any circumstances you
face? Paul knew how to be content whether he had
plenty or whether he was in need. The secret was
drawing on Christ's power for strength. Do you have
great needs, or are you discontented because you
don't have what you want? Learn to rely on God's
promises and Christ's power to help you be content.
If you always want more, ask God to remove that
desire and teach you contentment in every
circumstance. He will supply all your needs, but in a way
that he knows is best for you (see the note on
4:19 for more on God supplying our needs). [Life
Application SB]
COMMENTARY PEARL
Contingent Contentment
Does your happiness depend on what you
drive? Wear? Deposit? Spray on? If so, you have
entered the rat race called materialism.
The cycle is predictable. You assume, If
I get a car, I'll be happy. The car wears out,
so you look for joy elsewhere. If I get married
... If we can have a baby If I get the new
job If I can retire In each case joy
comes, then diminishes. By the time you reach old
age, life has repeatedly let you down. Contingent
contentment turns us into wounded, worried people.
Paul advances a healthier strategy. He
learned to be content with what he had. Which is
remarkable since he had a jail cell instead of a house,
chains instead of jewelry, a guard instead of a
wife. How could he be content?
Simple. He focused on a different list.
He had Christ, and Christ was enough. What he
had in Christ was far greater than what he
didn't have in life. Here's a suggestion: challenge
yourself to say the same. [You Can Count On God by
Max Lucado]
LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY
Philippians 4:11, 12 - The Secret of
Contentment.
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220105-0847.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2021/20210831-0921.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2019/20190704-1038.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2017/20170813-1145.html
YOUR COMMENTS
If anyone has a paraphrase, commentary or
testimony on this passage of Scripture, either
personal or otherwise, I would be interested in
hearing from you. Thanks in advance and let's keep
uplifting Jesus that all might be drawn to Him. Fred
Gibbs
LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT
https://abible.com/links/
