A poet once wrote: “As a rule, man’s a fool. When it’s hot, he wants it
cool. And when it’s cool, he wants it hot. Always wanting what is not.”What an
insightful observation on human nature! So when we read in Philippians
4:11, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” we
wonder, Can this be possible?
For Paul it was. Philippians
4:12-13 describes Paul’s response to life: “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, whether well fed or hungry,
whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives
me strength” (NIV). Paul’s relationship with God superseded whatever he did or
did not have. His contentment was not based on his circumstances, but on his
relationship with Christ.
Paul reminds us that contentment doesn’t happen overnight. It’s
something that we learn. As our relationship with God develops over time and
through experiences, we learn to trust God more and ourselves less. Paul knew
that Christ would give him the strength to persevere in whatever situation he
encountered (v.13).
No matter what you’re facing today, through prayer you can receive the
strength to be content.
We find contentment at the same place we find salvation—in God. (RBC)
