The secret of contentment

"…I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him (Christ) who strengthens me." Philippians 4:11-13

     Would you like to feel rich for a moment? Then think of ten good things in your life that money cannot buy. Now take a closer look at your list. Did you mention a personal, loving, intimate relationship with God? You are blessed if you did-for this is the secret of the apostle Paul's soul deep contentment.

     Godly contentment is a priceless jewel, a learned behavior and a gift from God. It is a great mystery, revealed only by the Holy Spirit through divine revelation. It cannot be bought, bartered for, or negotiated. Such contentment with God's provisions, irrespective of circumstances, comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

     As the apostle Paul prepares to conclude his letter, he models Christian gratitude and courtesy, thanking this impoverished church. Out of their abject poverty, they had dug deep into their pockets, providing a generous gift for his comfort needs while in prison.

     Summarizing, Paul shares his source of contentment-the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ was his all sufficiency and source of encouragement, wisdom, and strength in weakness, infirmities, distresses, slanderous situations and frustrations. This was the secret of Paul's contentment. Priceless.

     Through many sufferings, Paul learned how to concentrate on the really important things in life. These things are invisible and eternal; bringing a deep serenity all the riches in the world cannot buy. Through life's hard knocks, Paul learned to be inwardly content, independent of his external circumstances.

     He learned the greatest secret in the world-contentment when lacking the most basic of physical necessities. Paul had suffered hunger and thirst, mental torture, great physical sufferings, exposure to cold, inadequate clothing, and endured horrific persecution for his distinctive Christian faith (Acts 14:19; 16:22-25; 17:13; 18:12; 20:3; chapters 21-27; 2 Corinthians 4:11; 6:4,5; 11:27, 33).

     Whether you are in posh or dire circumstances, spiritual contentment can be yours for the asking. Simply invite God to dwell in your heart through a personal relationship with his beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Get to know God better through daily moments of Bible reading and prayer. (You are cordially invited to use the New Life in Christ resources posted at http://soulfoodministry.org/English/NewLifeChristPart1.htm and http://soulfoodministry.org/English/NewLifeChrist2.htm.)

     When life is difficult, cling to your relationship with God, and trust Christ for strength for each moment. Whatever your situation, Christ is sufficient for your needs and you will never be alone. The presence of Christ is always near. So be greatly encouraged. May soul contentment be your blessing this day and always.

     Prayer: I thank you, O Living Source and Provider of Contentment. Thank you for Jesus Christ your Son, my Savior. Bless me with contentment. Open my eyes and heart to the sufficiency of Christ for all my needs. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
November 19, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.