contentment

Philippians 4:11 “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” ESV

“It is HOT!” That seems to be the most common phrase of the “dog days” season in Missouri. Temperature and Humidity go through the roof, and the heat index keeps us thinking about how cool we could be if we stayed home. Contentment is hard to find when you are sweaty and hot and uncomfortable.

Paul points to us that he had to learn to be content with whatever situation he was in. When following God, he never knew where he would go next. Sometimes he went to a city just to preach, sometimes he also had to work (making tents) while he was preaching, but all the while he remained content. I believe he remained content because he knew God had a purpose for him.

When we become discontent with our spiritual life, we need to look at what is at the base of that discontent. Have we decided that God is no longer in charge? Have we stopped being in awe of God’s goodness? Have we stopped listening to God’s call for us? Paul remained content because he was always focused on God, so maybe our discontentment is due not to God forgetting us, but because we forgot God.

Yes, we can be content in the heat, and the cold and the uncomfortable, but to be content means accepting God’s way as the only way.

God Blessings to you all.

Pastor Kent