This Day in History: 0000-10-26

October 26 – Philippians 4:11-14

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

Can we honestly say, as Paul did here, that we have learned to be content with whatever we have?  It’s no secret that God chooses different situations for different believers.  He may choose to bless one with plenty so that she learns to be generous, thankful, and humble.  At the same time His blessing upon another may come in the form of poverty so that she learns to depend on Him, to not envy others, and to have the humility to ask for help.  Are we looking for the blessings of God in our situations?  Or are we too busy wondering why He didn’t give us the blessings of another?

Contentment isn’t easy, but it’s possible no matter what.  I’ve met believers from all over the world, in all kinds of seemingly hopeless circumstances, who were filled with the joy of the Lord, with peace that passes all understanding, and with grateful hearts. Why?  Because they had their eyes fixed firmly upon the Lord.  They immersed themselves in Him and drew from Him the strength to not just endure, but to flourish when life seemed overwhelming, unfair, or impossible.  Are we ready to do the same?  Can we commit today to choosing contentment – no matter our circumstances?  Through Christ it’s possible. We are His dearly loved daughters and we can do everything through Him, because He gives us strength!