A Lesson In Contentment

 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.  I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:12-13)

Growing up I lived in a single parent household. My mom, who I love dearly, did the best she could but we definitely faced some hard times. Food choices were limited. Frozen pipes led to times when we had no running water. And an open oven and space heater were often the only sources of heat during harsh winter months.

Although it was hard to understand why it seemed like we had so little and others around me had so much, I realize now that those times were the training ground for a heart of humility. It was here that my lessons on contentment would begin to form and years later the words of this scripture would bring understanding to the conditions that I previously faced.

Because of those times of lack, I appreciate even more the blessings that I have today. Heat and running water are not taken for granted because there were times when I didn’t have them.  The joy of being able to pick out what I want in the grocery store means more to me than most because there were times when I was only limited to what our meager budget would allow. And more importantly…

I know that I can do all things [face all conditions] by the power that Christ gives me.

 It’s interesting to me because Philippians 4:13 is a very popular scripture people use in many different situations.

• Dealing with the stress of a child who won’t listen- I CAN DO ALL THINGS
• Marriage facing a rough patch- I CAN DO ALL THINGS
• When you’re up late trying to finish a paper for school- I CAN DO ALL THINGS
• Fighting through a tough exercise routine – I CAN DO ALL THINGS

And the list could go on!  Please hear me none of those things are wrong. We definitely can do all things He calls us to do but, I believe we miss out on an important aspect of this verse when we just apply it without looking at it in its entire context.

As Paul put it, the secret to his contentment from the strength that Christ provided was not only in the prosperous moments, but in the times of lack and suffering as well.

Let me encourage you that being content in your circumstances doesn’t mean that you are complacent. Rather it is an awareness that you recognize that God has you right where He wants, and will provide you with the peace in that season until He carries you to the next step. So whether you find yourself in a place of lack and wonder how you’ll make it, or you’re enjoying the fruit of prosperity in your life, remind yourself you have the strength to face all conditions not in your own might but through Christ who strengthens you.

Until Next Time!

x0x0

Keisha

P.S. If these messages have been encouraging you be sure to share with a friend! 🙂