Content

“I am not saying this because I am in need, 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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13

It just dawned on me that Paul wrote this while he was in “quarantine” in jail. How fitting for what seems to be such an oppressive time.

For years I thought this last verse, “I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength,” was talking about conquering something like a race or a mountain climb. It was used several times growing up in sports, especially when our team was up against the impossible. But I never thought of using it for a time like this.

How content are you right now? Contenment does not give way to fear or anxiety or worry. It can’t be achieved by gritting your teeth, and it doesn’t abide by the charge to “pull yourself up by your own bootstraps.” To be content is to be grounded in who you are and to trust, and not just intellectually know, the One who holds all things together.

God can be your source of strength during these times, not just to get you through, but to thrive in this time of quarantine.

Spend some time in prayer and ask the Lord to reveal where you are not content in Him. Confess to Him where you have used other things for strength to make it through. Ask him to help you find contentment in Him.

May the God of peace be with you.