Change is Inevitable
Contentment

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:10-13

Key Verse: Philippians 4:11

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

How is your “contentment” level these days? We don’t ask that question enough. When things don’t change or when change comes knocking, are you okay with it either way? The Apostle Paul had experienced a life of extremes; he lived a few years without having much and he lived a few years with plenty! In his flesh, did he enjoy the “plenty” more than the years of “need?” Of course, but the valuable lessons of contentment were solidified in his life more during the “needy” years than the “plenty” years!

Are you living through a season of need or a season of plenty? Are your lips praising God either way? Is your attitude still full of gratitude during the season of need? Webster gives us words like “satisfaction” and “willing” in the definition of contentment. We aren’t bad Christians if we don’t like the season of life we are going through. The challenge of contentment is having a satisfied heart, a willing heart to live in the season of life God has deemed best for us.

Contentment is critical to our spiritual growth because Jesus promised that this life is going to mean trouble for us. This world is not our final home; we are just passing through. Much of this world will not be particularly pleasant. If we are going to “shine like stars” for God’s Kingdom, we must live a life of contentment. Otherwise, too much of our lives will be tainted with complaining rather than praising!

Father, I will be content with the inevitable changes that will be coming my way. I claim your strength to endure the negatives and give you glory for every good and perfect gift in my life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.