“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. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13

If I were to ask you, “Are you content with what you have?” what would your response be? If I were to answer my own question, I’d have to honestly say that I am not 100 percent content. Yet, how beautiful that we can confidently express our weaknesses to our heavenly Father!

The context of this portion of scripture (Philippians 4:11-13) is important, so we must pay close attention to it. The writer, Paul, was just arrested and thrown into a Roman prison cell. This was certainly not just any prison cell, this was a dark, dirty, smelly, and small cell. Every prisoner who was placed here received zero pity and a whole lot of torture. They would be incapable of functioning properly because their hands and feet would be tied and held down by heavy pieces of wood or metal. Now that this scene is set in our minds, how in the world was Paul able to say “I am to be content” or “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me?” Paul faced great discomfort, trial, and uncertainty about what tomorrow holds, yet here he is, completely at ease in his heart.

“For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” 1 Timothy 6:7

Paul knew that nothing he owned, nor anything he desired, was greater in comparison to the very presence of God, which is what provided the strength he needed. Those material things, you and I so badly long for, will not be with us when we pass away, so why do we become discontent with our lives, when God’s word states that He is our “portion?” (Psalms 16:5).

Whether you or I come head-on with uncomfortable or lingering trials, we must be encouraged by the fact that there is a God whom we serve and His name is Jesus. He knows what you long for, He knows what your heart yearns for. Most importantly, He wants to become the very and only thing that will satiate your heart.

I pray, dear friend, that you and I would not only become content in every circumstance but that we would long for more of God. Not the things His hand generously gives, but simply more of Him, because He is enough.

Prayer:

Dear Father,

I long to know You more. Although I am fragile and not always wary of my tendency to be discontent, I trust that You will continue to be my Shepherd day in and day out. Show me the areas of my heart where I am discontent. As I go on about my day, would You fill my heart with Your presence and come be my all in all.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.