Are you content?
Contentment is defined as “a state of happiness or satisfaction.” Many people spend there entire lives searching for it, to no avail. They find, as that old song goes, “I can’t get no…satisfaction. And I try, and I try….”
We are a bit over a month away from Christmas. Usually, it is a happy time of year. People may find some contentment in receiving and giving gifts. But that contentment will be short lived. It always is.
Centuries ago, a very wise man wrote these words, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Did you notice something? Contentment is learned. It is not a reaction to outward circumstances, it is a inner state of mind and heart.
Those words were written by the Apostle Paul, who was a follower of Jesus. His secret of contentment was found in a relationship with Jesus. Having things can be good and helpful. But we have to be careful that our possessions don’t possess us. We will never be truly content until we know that Prince of Peace.
This week at Saturday Night Church we are going to be looking at the subject of contentment. If you find that your satisfaction constantly fluctuates from empty to full, I’d encourage you to come and hang out with us as we dive into Philippians 4:10-20. Spend some time over the next couple days reading this passage. God bless! See you soon!
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 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. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.