“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”

These are the words the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippian church. He wrote the epistle to that church from prison and he wanted to assure the Christians at Philippi that he was not in need. In fact, he was satisfied with his condition.

Compare the attitude of Paul with the expectations of many people today. Most people have a list of things they say it will take for them to be content. These are usually “things” they believe they need to have in order to be happy or content.

Paul had learned it was not “things” that will bring contentment, joy and happiness. He knew that true contentment is based in trust in the Lord.

There is an area of contentment in life where we can live through our faith in Him. To do this, there are some things we need to understand. Here are some things for you to consider:

First, we cannot live in fear. Growing in the love of God is the antidote to fear. Many live in fear of the future, unable to trust God for His will and plan. If we will develop God’s love in our lives, fear will vanish. The Bible says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…” (1 John 4:18) We do not have to fear, either, life or death.

Second, we cannot live in the past. Most people have things they want to remember and things they want to forget. Any experiences that hold us to the past must be given up at the Cross.

Third, we must lean wholly on God’s grace which is expressed in us by His love and mercy.

These are beginning steps to living in joy, favor and contentment.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6)

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Write the Pastor at PastorBill@firstagcc.org