"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in every 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."
Phil. 4: 11-13
There is a very big difference between contentment and happiness. Happiness is defined as a feeling or showing pleasure. However, contentment is described as a state of peaceful happiness or satisfaction. So what's the big difference? Happiness is based on our feelings, while contentment is rooted in something deeper. There is no problem with being happy. Happiness is a good thing. It boosts our mood, helps our bodies physically fight off bad stress, and releases pleasure hormones in our brains. Being happy is good, the problem comes when we confuse happiness for contentment. Contentment comes when we can be satisfied or peaceful in ANY circumstance life throws our way. Happiness is based on our feelings, and the issue with that is that feelings are fleeting. We feel one thing in one instance, and then we can have completely different feelings, causing different moods and emotions, in the next. When we live our lives based on feelings, we become anxious, partial, stressed, and often feel lonely, or even depressed. This is because we are always chasing the temporary feeling of happiness. Just something that makes us feel good in the moment. This obviously can have dire outcomes, leading to addictions and despair. However, Paul says that he has found the key to being content in every circumstance. One of the key aspects that Paul mentions is that he has learned how to do this. Being content in every situation is a skill every Christian ought to be constantly maturing in. This is because we have the key to peace; our Lord and Savior Jesus has already won the ultimate battle against sin and eternal death for us. Therefore, when we practically take this Truth into our daily lives we can be content, whether we are having the worst day of our lives or the best. Paul draws on his own personal experience of being hungry and being in need, and he contrasts this to his days living in abundance as a religious leader before his radical encounter with Christ changed him. He knows what is like to be in both extremes, and because of who Jesus is, and what He has done for us, Paul can be satisfied, whole, and content in any circumstance in life, good or bad. Because he lives a life based on the Truth, and not his feelings. This is why Paul can proclaim, that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me", because He knows the person of Jesus and the promises of an eternal, abundant life, and the promises of strength to overcome the certain struggles of our earthly life. Today, know that Jesus is with you in all circumstances. Know that you can have lasting peace, wholeness, and satisfaction in Him who strengthens you. Pray and ask the Lord to help you learn how to be content in whatever situation you are facing today, and to rest in His goodness. Love you all! Praying for you and yours! Have a blessed day, it's your choice!
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