DEVOTION – DAY 220

Philippians 4:11-13 “Being Contented”

 

Phil.4:11-13 “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.”

 

The apostle wrote these verses to thank the Philippians for sending him gifts but he wanted them to know that he was not ultimately dependent on their gifts. Paul wanted to share the reason with the Philippians. Paul had learnt not to rely on prosperity and comfort to be his source of contentment. Paul knew that there will be times in everyone’s lives when prosperity or comfort leaves them. Paul had found that true contentment must be a life based on a close and deep relationship with Jesus Christ who is the ultimate source of all strength. It is Jesus Christ who carries Paul through every situation, good and bad and that is why he had learnt true contentment.

 

Today, there are people who are not happy because they think their bosses do not treat them fairly. They are not contented because they think they deserve a promotion. There are people who are depressed because of the ongoing threat of catching Covid-19. They are fearful and they stay indoors most of the time. There are people who are unhappy because they see their friends being more prosperous than they are and they wonder when their luck will become better. For such people, since their contentment is based on their circumstances, their expectations, and the people around them, they will always be discontented. This is because there will always be a colleague who will receive a better promotion, there will always be a richer friend, or someone with a better health than people whose contentment are based on prosperity and comfort. Instead of being unhappy with what they do not have, they should be happy with what they have and be thankful that they have Jesus in their lives for He is the source of their strength.

 

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we worship you as the source of all strength and power. Please help us to remain content with what you have blessed us with no matter the circumstances because you are with us, and that is all that matters. We pray this in the blessed name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

 

Questions

  1. Are you contented with what you have at the moment or do you wish you have more in life? Share what you would like more of and why?
  2. How have these verses caused you to reconsider the topic of true contentment in life? Discuss.
  3. What are some of the Lord’s abundant blessings that He has given to you?
  4. How can you be more thankful to Him as a result of His blessings?