Contentment – Not a Dirty Word

1. Hayden 11-24-19

In the book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul addresses the church thanking them for the gifts that they had collected on his behalf. He was not necessarily in need of the gift they had given, in fact he goes on to say that very thing to them. But he was thankful for their generosity and the blessing that was attributed to their account for showing Christ’s love in their giving. The Scripture reads thusly, ¹⁰ ”But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. ¹¹ Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: ¹² I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. ¹³ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:10-13).

Contentment—what a word for growth! When the Apostle writes to the Church at Philippi and tells them that he “can do all things in Christ”, it is in reference to being content no matter what the circumstances may be in our own personal lives. Paul declares that no matter the circumstances that surround him or what the state of his economics may be, he will live in contentment and joy regardless. In fact, the Book of Philippians is known as The Epistle of Joy; being joyful whether good or bad may knock on your door. It is in Philippians that we read such things as “Rejoice in the Lord always”, “Be anxious for nothing”, and “by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7).

Peace, love, joy, and relatedly so, contentment are to be what the world sees when viewing God’s Church throughout the whole year, and especially at Christmas time. As we enter the season of gift giving and gift receiving, let us remember that having Christ in our hearts and family at our side is the most precious gift we can give to ourselves and those we love. Mark Twain wrote a famous quote that was later adapted to the film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The quote goes like this, “No man (“No one” in the movie) is a failure who has friends.” And if you think you don’t have a friend in the world, you are wrong. As your Church family, we want to be here for you. But One who knows you the best, loves you the most. Jesus Christ wants to be the friend of every man, woman, and child in the world. And a better friend no one could ever have! That fact only should make us content in all things. Have a wonderful Christmas season!

Be blessed even more!!

Pastor Chris