CONTENT

PRAYER: Dear Lord, We come to You at the beginning of this week asking for You to lead us in all we do.  Please guide us as we speak of Your truths and values today.  We praise You that your truth is marching on.  Amen.

Scripture…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.” Philippians 4:11b-12 NIV

Some of you may have heard me speak at a conference or church where I shared my testimony. God has grown my faith and strengthened my relationship with Him in many ways. In fact, this verse remarking on living in need and in plenty is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to my life, even dealing with a brain pituitary tumor. I have fought many battles. Some, I am ashamed to say, that I did not fight as well or respectably as others. As my relationship with Jesus Christ has grown, I have done so much better in relying on Him and not trying to take control away from Him. I have learned to keep my mouth shut much more often and to focus on being Christ-like and bringing Him the glory throughout the storm. This is the result of many mistakes and much Spiritual growth.

As I sat and talked with a friend who was working on a workshop about this very subject she asked, “What is the secret? How do you get there?” I had a one-word answer, “Obedience!” It may sound too simple, but I promise that remaining obedient to God no matter what the circumstances, going where He has commanded even though I’d rather not, sacrificing and just saying, “Yes, Sir,” has brought me to a peaceful place of contentment. I have found that if chaos surrounds me, if unrest swarms around me, if I cannot rest my mind, then I am fighting God, I am not being obedient in some way.

Many people go through life looking for something (or someone) else: another career, another job or another location, a different place to live or even someone else to live life with. They seek alternative answers or a new way to get what they want. It can keep you awake at night or make you physically, mentally and emotionally ill. The search and schemes never seem to end until you make the decision to trust and obey God and the plan He has for your life. It may not be what you pictured or even desired but it will be “perfect” in God’s ultimate purpose for you. I wish I could eloquently share with you how it feels to be content in all circumstances, but more importantly I pray that I will exhibit it.

How can each of us carry out the attribute of being content in our daily environment no matter what the circumstances?

Copyright Kathy Branzell.  Email [email protected]