I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. -Philippians 4:11b NLT
Sometimes contentment is misconstrued as resignation. A better word, for me anyways, is optimization - making and living the very best in whatever situation we find ourselves. Such was the case when the Apostle Paul wrote these words from a prison in Rome. He was, as it is sometimes said, an example of blooming where you are planted.
That said, I think that the concept is very challenging to people who do not understand what it means to be content. For some it resembles a weird form of victimization and a means of hopeless acceptance. And for the egocentric it resembles a strange form of self abasement. Yet for many contentment is a path full of hope and promise.
In you Lord, we live and breathe. And in you, we are learning to be content.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on words in the bible.
Very well stated! "Contentment is a path full of hope and promise." I posted notes on today's sermon which was based on Philippians 4 at http://bobwarr.blogspot.com/2015/11/simply-be-thankful.html
ReplyDeleteI so agree with what you wrote there vanilla. Contentment is possible because of the strength we have in Christ.
Deletevery much in agreement.
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