Content
I
rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me.
Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not
saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the
circumstances. 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 all
this through him who gives me strength.
Yet it was good of
you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early
days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not
one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you
only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when
I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be
credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than
enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus
the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice,
pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of
his glory in Christ Jesus.
To our God and Father
be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Philippians
4:10-20
Throughout our lives,
whether we are children or adults, the common phrase is “more.” It doesn’t
matter what it is, we seem to think we need, “more.”
The power of Christ
can break that and help us live with what we have, and to be happy with what we
have.
Paul’s testimony was
about ups and downs: snake bites, false accusations, and even to founding new
churches. Paul acknowledged he could do all things through Christ. Christ strengthened
him and helped him, just as Jesus Christ helps us today to break the string of,
“more.”
Remember that
contentment comes when you have “more” of Christ.
True
contentment is not dependent on anything in this world.
Our Daily Bread –