Scripture – “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.”
Philippians 4:11-13 NIV
Observation – Paul is telling us that he has learned to be content no matter what is happening to him because he knows how to live when he is in need and when he has plenty. His secret is relying and trusting in Jesus’ power rather than his own.
Application – How does this work? How can someone do all things through Christ’s strength? Well, there isn’t a pill you can take, this can only be accomplished by abiding in Jesus. This means that a person invests time in reading, studying, memorizing and meditating on God’s word, spending time in extended periods of prayer, obeying God’s commands and trusting that Jesus’ plan for you is the best plan for you. A person that has learned to be content in all circumstances understands that we are strangers in this world and are passing through. We’ll be on this planet for 80, maybe 90 years but we’ll live in eternity forever. As a result of this absolute truth the person that has learned to be content is storing up treasure in heaven and they are using their earthly resources to help other people get to heaven.
Prayer – Lord Jesus, I pray that you would bring this passage back to my mind when I am focusing on earthly wealth as the main objective. I know this isn’t right. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 