The Secret of Contentment

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 Philippians 4:12-13 "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. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

 As Paul closes out his letter to the Philippians, he thanks them for their gift to help him meet his financial needs.  Several times during Paul's missionary journeys in and around Macedonia where Philippi was located, the Philippians supplied for Paul's need.  They were one of the few churches that did this and Paul commends them for it.  It was one of the reasons why Paul was so fond of them.  

 Paul uses this situation to teach them the secret of contentment.  There have been times when he was well supplied and other times when he was in need and nowhere to turn.  Paul's secret was that he realized he could do all things through Christ.  He knew that as he obeyed God's call on his life that God would provide.  Paul could rest easy knowing that the one who was the giver of all things would take care of his needs.  

 Jesus is the secret to contentment not only in our financial life but every area of our lives.  At the end of this chapter Paul writes,  "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."

 What you need today?  Where are you feeling a lack of contentment in your life?  Paul learned the secret of contentment whether he was living in plenty or in want.  The secret was knowing Christ, and knowing that his needs would be met in him.  

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