July 13th, 2023
by Jonathan Stephen
by Jonathan Stephen
Good morning Church! let us get a Godly perspective as we go about our day, and that will in turn lead to a life of contentment.
Philippians 4:11-12 ESV
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
Contentment means to be at ease on the inside, regardless of circumstances on the outside. It has to do with an inner trust and dependence upon God as we rest peacefully and thankfully in our present circumstances. It means to be okay where I am until I get to where I want to go. That clarification is critical because too many people assume that contentment means to give up the desire to go any further in life or experience a change in status of relationships, finances or employment. To let all of your desires go reduces the spirit and soul to a mere robotic presence.
We have been created in the image of God and as such, have within us both the ability and desire to create, expand and grow. Paul wrote, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (Philippians 4:11-12).
I understand that contentment can be elusive. It’s not something we naturally possess. That’s why Paul informed us in the book of Philippians that he had to learn contentment. He had to grow out of feelings of discontentment through various life lessons. Life is a master instructor, and those who pay attention can gain from the many lessons it has to teach.
Philippians 4:11-12 ESV
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
Contentment means to be at ease on the inside, regardless of circumstances on the outside. It has to do with an inner trust and dependence upon God as we rest peacefully and thankfully in our present circumstances. It means to be okay where I am until I get to where I want to go. That clarification is critical because too many people assume that contentment means to give up the desire to go any further in life or experience a change in status of relationships, finances or employment. To let all of your desires go reduces the spirit and soul to a mere robotic presence.
We have been created in the image of God and as such, have within us both the ability and desire to create, expand and grow. Paul wrote, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (Philippians 4:11-12).
I understand that contentment can be elusive. It’s not something we naturally possess. That’s why Paul informed us in the book of Philippians that he had to learn contentment. He had to grow out of feelings of discontentment through various life lessons. Life is a master instructor, and those who pay attention can gain from the many lessons it has to teach.
Recent
Archive
2023
May
June
Importance of the WordWe have New LifeA solid foundationWho you are in ChristRemain in victoryActivate the WordGrowing upHave you been informed?Strive for maturityMelchizedekPut on ChristLet's get Dressed.Mirrors don't liePutting on ChristYou Can't Out Give GodGod's EconomyGod’s generosityGenerosity continuedGiving God first place
July
Committed to the JourneyStaying committedHe's FaithfulFix our heartsThe Proper ViewKnowing JesusThe keys of the kingdomContentmentHearing the truthThe Father's HouseThe great ResetMeeting with the FatherYou are not aloneKnowing where you standOur HopeThe sovereign GodThe best defence is a great offenceGod in ControlDevotional on pause for August
August
September
Home Sweet HomeInviting Jesus in your HomeGiving wayLiving in God's RealityJesus is over everythingCalled-out onesRecognizing God in YouMiracle Worker.Christ in usTogethernessBenefiting the bodyIt's All ConnectedMission ImpossibleCooperationFirst PlaceGive Them Something to EatShine Brightlight of the worldReflecting the lightFleas and Thank-YouGuarding your heart
October
Categories
no categories
Tags
no tags
3 Comments
Thanks Jonathan .great reminder to seek contentment and allow the Holy Spirit lead us in it .
A very needed reminder,tks John
Thank you for the devotion needed that.