“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am in to be content…I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:11-12 

Scripture reading: Philippians 4:10-20 and 1Timothy 6:6-10

For the Christian, having a true sense of contentment is a vital thing. We live in a world where satisfaction and fulfilment are never a certainty. Mankind always seems restless, and without peace. Man always seems to have a desire to be fulfilled, a need to be met, or an itch to be scratched! The sinful heart is never satisfied! And yet, Paul says, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content…” (v.11b). In the school of faith, in serving Christ, and in resting in God’s providential care, Paul has “learned” how to be content as a Christian! And how? Well, as he says in v.13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Yes, in Christ, by His strength, Paul can be content. He can weather the storms of poverty and be thankful. He can resist pride when he is full and has much! Christ enables him to have a proper perspective on life. Therefore, the circumstances and situations of Paul’s life do not dictate his desires or emotions.

True contentment – is it something we have or are we restless and without peace? As Christians, we are to look to Christ daily and be reminded of the sufficiency we have in Him and take comfort in that. For God will take care of all our needs in Christ, above and beyond what we can imagine! Yes, let us find our daily strength in Him!

Suggestions for prayer: Let us daily be reminded where our contentment is found! For it is not in our savings, work, health, or family, but in Christ Jesus, our Lord! In Him, we have all we need for today, tomorrow and forever!

Rev. Ancel Merwin serves as minister of the Immanuel United Reformed Church of Listowel, Ontario, Canada. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.