Philippians 4:11-12a, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound…”
To be content means to be satisfied and happy. The definition of ‘learn’ is to gain or receive knowledge by practice or performing.
Basically, Paul is saying that as he grew and matured in his Christian faith, he began to realize that his state of contentment was not dependent on the circumstances of his life. If he was rich (abounding) or abased (poor), it made no difference on his satisfaction thermometer. He was not gauging his contentment on what was going on around him.
Paul’s life consisted of doing as much as he could for the cause of Christ. Wherever God led him, whatever the surrounding circumstances, His eyes were on the Lord. He was fully persuaded that God was in control of all that happened in his life and he rested in this knowledge.
Contentment is an emotion and often our emotions can be on a roller coaster – up and down with the waves of the circumstances of life. This is not how God desires for us to live. This is not how we have to live if we learn to keep our eyes on God and trust that He is in control of all things.
Isaiah 26:3 is still in the Book, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
Contentment and peace is promised to the Christian – IF his mind is stayed on God. Money in the bank is of no use unless drawn out and used. The promises in the Bible are not beneficial to us unless we seek them out and claim them. Appreciate God’s Word, love God’s Word, and start claiming His promises. The life of peace and contentment is available to all of us!
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