CONTENTMENT
Philippians 4:10–20
We are surrounded by an environment of “more” in our culture. “More” drives many people to the brink of insanity and unhappiness. More money, more stuff, more vehicles, more expensive means of recreation, more food, more travel, more clothes.
In a world where excess seems to be the norm, we are tempted to lose the joy of being content and satisfied. Imagine if buffets changed their signs from “All You Can Eat” to “All You Should Eat.” I am afraid many places would not be in business for long.
Contentment stands in opposition to comparison. When we begin to compare our lives with those of others, the enemy will plant a seed of discouragement and even doubt in our hearts and minds. Being discontent can sneak up on you unexpectedly.
There is a reason companies spend billions of dollars on advertising. They are hoping to tap into your desire for more and expose your discontentment. Thankfully for the Christian, true and lasting contentment is possible.
Contentment is not based on our circumstances. (10–12a)
Do not fall into the trap that lasting happiness or joy is within your grasp based on what you are going through in life. Too often, we believe that if things are going our way we can feel closer to God. The opposite should also be true. We cannot base our view of God’s goodness and provision on how we perceive our current situations in our lives.
Our circumstances can change in a heartbeat. If the basis of our contentment is rooted only in what we can see or understand, we will continually be disappointed and frustrated.
Contentment rests in Christ. (12b–14)
In this passage, we encounter one of the most frequently cited and yet most misinterpreted verses in the Bible. The context of this passage deals with contentment found in Christ. Verse 13 is not intended to serve as motivation to hit a baseball, secure a promotion at work or pass an exam. The intent of verse 13 is to express the all-sufficient presence and power of Jesus. In Christ, we have the promise of His strength and guidance in the face of discontentment and lack. Christ is greater than any circumstance you and I will ever face. Could it be that the contentment you lack reflects your greater need to be satisfied with Christ?
God provides what we need to be content. (15–20)
Again, remember that Paul’s view as he wrote these words was prison bars, not a posh office or even a church sanctuary. Paul had learned that genuine gratitude was not found in stuff but rather in the Savior. He expressed his appreciation to the people of Philippi and their generosity in supporting his ministry. By them providing for him, he knew God would provide for them as well.
We can each mirror the contentment of Paul when we recognize that the unending source of all good things is the heavenly Father. His benevolent hand provides for us everything we need to live a holy, content and satisfying life. His provision should result in us praising Him. He has bestowed upon us a buffet of blessings — more than we could ever count and enough to never hunger again. Grab a plate and enjoy.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
