The Secret of Contentment
November 15, 2020
Commentary
Paul was not the victim of circumstances but victorious over circumstances. Instead of having spiritual ups and downs as the situation changed, he went right on, steadily serving Christ. He found contentment in things Christ provided. At times Paul experienced definite financial and material needs and at other times he had an abundance (v. 12). Regardless of the situation he had learned to be content in whatsoever state he was in (v. 11). Contentment is not complacency, nor is it a false peace based on ignorance. The word actually means contained. It is the description of a man who resources are within and he does not depend on substitutes from without.
Paul’s happiness did not depend on circumstances or things. His joy came from something deeper than prosperity. In fact prosperity has often done more damage to believers than adversity (v. 13). The Christian has all power within that he needs to cope with the demands of life. Paul thanks the church at Philippi for the generous gift they had sent him. He compares it to a budding tree (v. 10), and investment (vv. 14-17), and sacrifice (v. 18). He sees this gift as a supply of his need from heaven and not just something coming from Philippi. Hudson Taylor often said, when God’s work is done God’s way for God’s glory, it will not lack for God’s supply."
Application
To what am I drawn when I feel empty inside? The answer lies in my perspective, my priorities and where I go to for my source of power.
Philippians 4:08– 13 (NET)
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things. 9 And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me, do these things. And the God of peace will be with you.
10 I have great joy in the Lord because now at last you have again expressed your concern for me. (Now I know you were concerned before but had no opportunity to do anything.) 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content in any circumstance. 12 I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment, whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. 13 I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.