Philippians 4:11-13 – “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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 all this through him who gives me strength.”

“The secret of contentment is not normally learned in posh circumstances or in deprived circumstances, but in exposure to both.  The brute fact is that Paul is content in both circumstances because his contentment is utterly independent of circumstances. His contentment is focused on all that he enjoys of Christ Jesus. That means he has learned, by hard experience, a relaxed contentment whatever his circumstances. Paul confesses that if he has reached this stage of contentment he owes everything to God: “I can do everything through him who gives me strength’ (Phil 4:13).

“It takes the strength and resolution and perspective that only God can provide to live above changing, difficult circumstances. But to live above circumstances, utterly content in Christ Jesus, is to ensure that you will never give up the Christian walk. Resolve to learn the secret of contentment.” (D.A. Carson)

Prayer:  Apart from you, Lord, I can do nothing but I can do all things in Christ who strengthen and enable me. I desire to remain in you, be close to you as you hold my hand tightly and walk with me today.

– JK