I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances (Philippians 4:11, NIV).
Being content is the secret of joy in life.
Happiness isn’t ultimately found in education, wealth, or fame. Often those with college degrees, millions of dollars, and worldly success are miserable.
The Apostle Paul, who writes about being content in Philippians 4:11, had education, wealth, and worldly success and gave it all up. He walked away from the things most people depend upon to find contentment.
He writes in Philippians 4:12, “I have learned the secret of being content” (NIV).
Below are the three rules of contentment found in the Bible:
- Stay in your faith!
Have you heard someone say, “Stay in your lane,” meaning keep within the boundaries of your talents? Romans 12:3 teaches:
Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.
Don’t think too highly of yourself. Be humble and content!
- Find your joy!
The Bible teaches that we should rejoice in all things (Philippians 4:4 and James 1:2). It’s a lot easier to be joy-filled when your life is focused on what gives you joy.
Nehemiah 8:10 says, “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
What gives you joy?
At the end of each day, ask yourself, “Was my day filled with joy?” If not, then consider why not. Learning to sense your level of joy is important to keeping contentment.
Paul learned his joy and then wrote, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, ESV).
- Live in grace.
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace (1 Peter 4:10, ESV).
Grace is capability! The more we serve with the need for supernatural help, the more grace we experience. When we allow fear to diminish our serving, then grace diminishes.
God’s grace is unlimited. Paul writes in Philippians 4:19 that, “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Our contentment will ebb and flow according to our releasing or quenching God’s grace. When we serve others with our spiritual gifts, we enjoy God’s grace.
That’s it, contentment by …
- Staying in your faith.
- Finding your joy.
- Living in grace.
What are our recent experiences of faith-building, finding joy, and living in grace? Let’s find the secret of contentment.