Philippians 4:12-13
“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 everything through him who gives me strength.”
Two things happened today that started my mind to kick into gear. The first was a conversation with a close friend. He mentioned a middle-aged woman who works where he does. He made the comment that she is never contented. There is always something else that she buys or does in order to feel satisfied.
Just an hour later Joyce and I visited with my cousin and her husband from Idaho. Her husband mentioned that he had put together some 400 pictures to illustrate our family history. He went to their car and brought me a DVD that contained this extensive work.
As he explained the work that had been required to put the presentation together, I realized what a precious gift he had given me. It even had pictures of some of my family stretching back into the 1700’s.
I slipped in my DVD player when I returned home. It was a thrilling experience to see the face of family members that I had never seen before as well as those who lived in my own lifetime and had been a part of our family gatherings.
As I viewed pictures from the early 1900’s and forward, I noticed how small the houses were. Some were just a few rooms, yet I knew that large families had been raised in those tiny abodes, and never did I hear my elders complain that they had to find a larger place to live.
As I reflect on these two occurrences I pause to wonder why we modern folks, with all of the modern conveniences, seem so discontent. What does it take for you and I to have that feeling of satisfaction that can best be expressed as: AHHHH!
Instead of experiencing the peace that passes all understanding, I think we have fallen into the murky pit of envy and greed. We observe someone who has have something bigger, better or newer, and we just to have it or we will never be satisfied. I am here to tell you that the things of this world will never satisfy.
Paul, in writing to the Christians in Philippi, shares his personal testimony. In today’s Scripture Paul reminds them, and us, that he has experienced periods of deprivation and suffering as well as times of abundance. Neither, “being in want” or “having plenty”, has anything to do with contentment.
So what is the secret that Paul wants us to know about achieving that feeling of contentment in our lives? He gives us the secret in verse 13. “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Once again I am struck by how hard we strive to amass things that will pass away, but ignore the simple and true Word of God. I may never have the riches of this world, but I have wealth beyond human imagination. It is waiting for me in glory! AHHH!
Blessings dear hearts. Walk with God today. Trust Him completely and be a blessing.
— Pastor Cecil