A Contentment Powered Life

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. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:10-13

Are you content? Most of us aren’t. Most of us have goals, bucket lists, and treasures we want to achieve or acquire. This is a part of how we are made, to imagine, set goals, and bring about a vibrant exciting future. It can also be a sinful preoccupation pulling us away from seeing gifts and blessings to be cherished.
Paul has not missed the moment and is not preoccupied with lesser goals. His joy and love for the Philippians, particularly as they have shared their affection and love for him by providing for his needs, gives him cause for thanksgiving. Their concern for him as a fellow brother in the family of God is a deep blessing to him. He shares what he has learned, and now models for the Philippians, Godly contentment.
We know from various accounts of Paul’s life that he often did without and at other times his needs were supplied, but no matter his state of want or plenty he had all he needed because he had Christ.
It is this godly contentment that enables us to live powerful faithful lives before friends, family, and co-workers that do not falter despite changing circumstances. Just like Jesus, who withstood the temptation to receive the kingdoms of the world(Matthew 4:7-11) and also endured the cross with perfect reliance on his Father’s love and direction, we find our contentment in the love and leading of our Heavenly Father. When we function out of this godly, gospel-grounded contentment, we accomplish all that the Lord puts in our hearts to do and we do it with joy.

O God,
We confess that we are often discontent in this life. We strain for accolades and accomplishments, and to acquire the desires of our hearts. Help us to desire you above all and in the acquisition of your grace and truth in our lives lean toward you for our full supply. May those of us, “in ‘want’ learn patience and trust in suffering; those in ‘wealth’ learn humility and dependence in prospering, not to mention the joy of giving without strings attached!”
Let our joy and solidarity with one another and with you give us deep contentment that empowers us to live for you in every way. We pray this because of Jesus, your Son,
Amen