Contentment is such a hard thing in our lives, because we are so determined to control our own destiny. The reality is that we need to learn to trust in the providence of God to see us through the events of life. Paul writes in Philippians 4:10 “But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me has flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. until we truly learn that God is sovereignly ordering everything for His own holy purposes and ultimate good of those who love Him. When we take of the responsibility of ordering our lives, we become frustrated in repeatedly discovering that we can’t control everything. Contentment comes from learning that God is sovereign not only by supernatural intervention, but also by natural orchestration. Paul’s testimony is to “work as hard as you can and be content that God is in control of the results.… READ MORE

In Philippians 4:11, Paul says, “I have learned in whatever state I am therein to be content.” Paul was not talking about an emotional detachment to circumstances, rather he was referring to a firm confidence in the power of God to see us through the difficulties of our life. Paul understood that “He could do all things through Christ who strengthened him.” It is so hard for us to be content, because we are always looking for a life of ease and abundance. Because of our sinful hearts, we never seem to “arrive” at that destination. Contentment must be initiated by faith in Jesus Christ and it challenges our thinking in 5 areas: Confidence in God’s providence; satisfaction with what we have, Detachment from circumstances, sustained by Divine power, and a preoccupation with the well-0being of others. I will give you a bit of time to ponder these and then I hope to briefly expand on these things in the coming days. I want to leave you with one thought today. living in contentment is a choice of the will, that starts by trusting in a loving, merciful, sovereign Lord. May you learn as Paul did how to find contentment … READ MORE

Life isn’t always going to serve us what we would like. God permits trials in our lives to help us pray, trust, and be grateful for what we have. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 says, “Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out, and having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” Contentment is our greatest equation for evangelism. a murmuring, discontent, grumbling, griping and complaining Christian is never going to have a positive influence on others. People will never believe the life changing hope of the gospel until they see those who embrace it living, and acting in ways that are contrary to the world. If we put a check on the complaining we do, we will be affirming that God knows what He is doing in our lives, and He allows these events for our benefit and growth. Learn to be grateful for the life that the Lord has given you, and the opportunity to share with those around you the goodness of our God. … READ MORE