Theme: Contentment Builds Character - Series 21
Philippians
4:11 “… for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content”
(KJV).
This
devotion is related to the “Daily Routine Builds Character” and that through
daily routine, we are either contented or not contented. The word, content means satisfy. So I choose
Paul, the Apostle of Christ as an example to share his experience how he became
contented.
The
Philippian church was a missionary church that ministered to Paul’s needs
during his travel. They were concerned for Paul who lack the necessity of
things. So they sent gifts to Paul whatever he needs for himself and for traveling.
Paul
thank them for gifts, but Paul did not want them to worry so Paul quoted, “…
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 (need)” (Phil. 4:12-13). Paul’s
secret of contentment when he quoted, “I can do all things through Christ who
gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).
When
we choose to honor the Creator with our thoughts, our prayers, and our actions,
we keep growing day by day. God has
given me responsibility to take care of Tony, take care of household, take care
of daily things and like Paul, the Apostle, quoted, “I am contented whatever
God has for me.”
“The key to contentment is realizing
that God has given you in your present circumstances everything you need to
remain victorious in Christ [See ref. below]. Your ability to live
triumphantly above changing circumstances is Christ’s power flowing in and
through you. This does not come
naturally, however; it must be learned through dependence on Christ.” [Commentary: The Full Life Study Bible,
Donald Stamps]
References
and summary:
1
Cor. 15:57 Give thanks to God who has given us the victory through Jesus.
2
Cor. 2:14 Thank God who cause us to triumph in Christ …
1
John 5:4 Those who are born of God overcomes the world … even our faith.
Again,
the key to contentment is to quote Philippian 4:13 “I can do all things through
Christ who gives me strength.” Christ’s power and grace are given to us to be
able to do that He has asked us to do. Prayer: Thank You, Holy Spirit for Christ’s power
flowing through us that we may shine as the stars whatever work we do. In Jesus’
name!
Song: We Shall Shine As
the Stars
(Chorus)
We
shall shine as the stars of the morning,
With
Jesus the Crucified One;
We
shall rise (shine) to be like Him
forever,
E-ter-nal-ly
shine as the sun.
(Judson W. Van DeVenter)
May
God bless you!
Dorothy
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