Beautiful Word Devotional #178

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.

Philippians 4:12

It is definitely not natural for us human beings to be content. Yet Paul learned the secret of being content and lived it out “in any and every situation,” whether he was needy or needed nothing, whether he was hungry or well fed.

The secret is trusting God. Trusting in his sovereignty over our lives. Trusting in his good and loving and, yes, mysterious ways. Paul said: “I can do all this [be content whatever the circumstances] through him who gives me strength” (v. 13). The secret to contentment is looking to God for strength to endure. At times Paul had all he needed, and at other times he suffered with needs. And in either case, he chose contentment. Whether it’s a job loss, a cancer diagnosis, a tough marriage, a wayward child, or any of a number of things, we are able to be content when we look to God.

Lord, help me keep my eyes on you, who loves me and has good plans for me, amen.