Our Source of Contentment

Philippians 4:10-13 (NLT)
 
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
 
 
Reflection
 
Do you consider yourself a happy person? Or are you a joyous person? Do you know the difference between happiness and joy? Aren’t they one and the same? I guess I always thought so. In the introductory paragraphs of my NLT study bible, it is written that happiness depends on happenings and our circumstances, but joy depends on Jesus. It states, “Joy is the quiet, confident assurance of God’s love and work in our lives - that He will be there no matter what!”
 
Paul was under house arrest and facing execution when he wrote the above letter to the church at Philippi. During his life, Paul faced much adversity and many hardships as he traveled around, preaching the message of the Gospel. But through it all, Paul was a joyous man. In this passage, he was trying to get the point across that we can endure anything if we rely on the strength that only Jesus can provide. Paul is telling us that no matter our circumstances, we can lean on Jesus, because He is always with us. And if we do that, we can find joy and contentment in life that is only available through a relationship with our Living God.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
 
Verse 13 does not have anything to do with us – our accomplishments, our victories, our successes. It actually means quite the opposite. We face problems, illnesses, loss of loved ones; so many things that test our faith. Things don’t always go our way, but even in the face of adversity, we can still experience joy through the strength provided to us by Christ Jesus.
So, no matter what curveball life may throw at us, we can face it with joy, grace, contentment, strength, peace, and faith because our relationship with Jesus is what will sustain us.


Action Steps
 
Take time this week to read the entire book of Philippians. Joy is a dominant theme throughout the book and we can all use more joy in our lives! Is there one verse that especially resonates with you? Write it out and keep it close to you this week.  
 

Prayer
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing joy and peace into my life. There are times when the stresses of life can bring me to tears, but through it all, I know You are there to lift me up. Help me to always remember I can gain my strength through knowing You and staying close to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.