Learn to be Content
Paul was instructed to be content. God had instructed Paul in living with and without. We need to learn to be content.
How do we learn to be content? I love this verse. Notice the words I have put in bold print.
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. Philippians 4:11–12.
Let me give you some ideas on how we learn to be content no matter what is happening in our lives. I need to say that I am still in school on this one. I am still being instructed.
First we practice gratitude knowing that all that we have comes from God. He is in charge and he can be trusted. If I truly believe that he is my father and has my best interest at heart then I can say thank you.
We can also decide that whatever God gives us is what we need. My needs aren’t determined by propaganda or what others have. I will focus on what is important, my relationship to God, my family, and friends.
Let’s learn generosity. Giving and gratefulness go hand in hand. When we are thankful to God for what He is doing we are able to give knowing that God will take care of us.
The biggest enemy to contentment might be the illusion of control. We want to decide what happens to us. We forget that are His creation. He has a plan for our lives. He is at work in us. Sometimes God may do things we do not want to happen. Then we must decide to surrender to His will not ours.
Contentment is not based on externals but internals. God is enough.
There must be a shift in perspective. We must be willing to accept whatever God and life throw at us.
Find joy today in the Lord. Be grateful. Give up control and trust Jesus.