Devotions based on week 11 of Joy in the Journey: Contentment (WATCH HERE)
Philippians 4:11 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. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Secret # 3: Trust is a Must!
Stuff can be our security. If we have funds in the bank, it gives us a level of security that we will have enough to cover the rent or mortgage and put food on the table. Contentment is easier when you have a financial cushion. For those readers who have been down to the last few dollars in your account, it’s perhaps harder to trust, although sometimes that is all you can do.
Paul learned to be content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry, having plenty or not knowing where his next meal would come from.
What was his secret?
“I can do all things through him who gives me strength.”
While this passage is on plaques and daily verse lists and has broad application, the immediate context puts the strength to be content squarely on the shoulders of the Lord. Discontent will easily creep back into our hearts if our strength for contentment is based on external circumstances or realities. When our heart is grounded in the Lord, we have the strength to realize that whether the bank account is empty or full, we have a powerful God who will enable us to find contentment.
But why? What are some of the realities that strengthen our heart when we struggle with contentment?
First, trust God’s promises. Here’s one in Hebrews 13:5, Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” This is a promise that can be trusted. Wealth may and will eventually leave us, but God never will. We don’t have to sell our heart to stuff for peace, we can allow our heart to rest firmly in the promises of God.
Second, trust God’s provision. King David penned in Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.” With the Lord at our side, we have the Creator of the universe at the ready to provide for us as he does for all of his creation. Sure he gives us the ability to work, a mind to think, and skills to use. These are part of his provision plan for us to use faithfully and be a blessing to others. When others pay us for the value we add, we simply give thanks that the Lord, Our Shepherd, has once again provided.
Third, trust God’s peace. The prophet Isaiah spoke God’s truth in Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. 4 Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.” When we trust, our heart can rest in God’s peace. It is not disrupted by plenty or panicked by lack. With the Lord taking care of all our needs, but especially the most important in our salvation, our heart, no matter what the circumstances can have peace because it trusts firmly in the power of the Lord.
Paul learned that contentment came from trust, not treasure. I pray that we all can learn the secret of contentment and experience this reality play out in our lives, “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
Apply: Reflect on the three areas of trust. Which is most challenging for you? What is one way you can practice trust in that area?
Prayer: Lord, continue to teach me the secret to contentment. Lead my heart to trust you, your promises, your provision, and your peace. AMEN.