Contentment (from 31 Days of Encouragement – Laura)

“NOT THAT I SPEAK FROM WANT; FOR I HAVE LEARNED TO BE CONTENT IN WHATEVER CIRCUMSTANCES I AM. I KNOW HOW TO GET ALONG WITH HUMBLE MEANS, AND I ALSO KNOW HOW TO LIVE IN PROSPERITY; IN ANY AND EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE I HAVE LEARNED THE SECRET OF BEING FILLED AND GOING HUNGRY, BOTH OF HAVING ABUNDANCE AND SUFFERING NEED. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME.” Philippians 4:11-13

The women came into the room for Bible study and took their places at their assigned seats. They all wore identical prison issue jumpsuits. As I sang, they worshiped God with me. I can still see their radiant faces. We had a common bond – Jesus Christ. Despite the grim circumstances, these sisters showed great contentment, especially in some of their prayers. One woman prayed, “Please join me and stand with me, giving thanks to God for allowing me to obtain mercy. Now I can find grace in time of all my needs.” Contentment is determined by perspective. These prisoners were looking to Christ and finding contentment despite their circumstances.

Paul was in prison when he wrote a letter to the church at Philippi. It becomes very clear as you read this letter that Paul maintained an eternal perspective even while in the worst of conditions. He begins his letter with the salutation, “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:2). Grace and peace are words of deep contentment, revealing an understanding of God’s sovereignty. Paul is content because of his eternal perspective.

When I lose this eternal focus I can easily become discontent. My daily life is the place where I struggle; all those mundane chores that have to be done again and again. You can name yours, I’m sure. Looking at my work, I lose perspective. When I see the precious faces that benefit from my work, I am given a perspective that brings contentment. Another quick way to lose your focus is pride. Most of us have an excessively high opinion of what we deserve. I have heard it said that we should all remember three words: I deserve hell! The Exemplary Husband by Stuart Scott lists some manifestations of pride: anger, outbursts, a critical spirit, listening poorly, blame shifting, self focused, haughty look, complaining and passing judgment on God. I find this list quite convicting.

God uses this daily classroom of life to teach me the secret of being content. Am I willing to adjust my focus and find contentment no matter the circumstances? How about you? Next time you sense a lack of contentment because you think you deserve better, check your perspective. Think about the prisoner, Paul, and his words to the Philippians.

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13