I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)What is the secret to being content? It seems normal for us to want something new, to hear something different or new, to watch the latest episode, to see the most recent movie. And yet we hear of this virtue of contentment from the Bible.
Defined
Here is the dictionary definition of "content" -- satisfied with what one is or has; not wanting more or anything else
One thing that I mention to the kids often that I am sure they get tired of hearing is that society trains us to not be content. If we were all content then I would be out of a job. The source of the City's revenue is gross receipts tax which comes from people buying things, including things at the mall or department stores; this includes the latest phone or MP3 player as well as food at a restaurant. While I despise this at times, my employment depends on this. It must be okay then to want things.
It is easy to see contentment with relationships. My wife Pamela of 22 years is someone I am completely content with. There is no one else I want and there isn't a new improved model I am looking for. I can say the same about each of my children. I enjoy their growth, but I never want to trade them in for someone different.
But, the windows on our house, the carpet on our floors, the landscape of the yard, are all things I would like an improvement. Obviously, there are things that break, like the washing machine and dryer or the porch roof or another appliance.
Context
The verse above was written when Paul was in prison. As a prisoner, Paul had to provide his own comforts and it was often the Philippians that wanted to share what they had with him. Yet, Paul, reminds them that he has learned to be content in whatever situation he is in (Phil 4:11). But, he also wants to share that his contentment is not because of his own effort, but because of the strength the Lord gives. And so his contentment is not meant to be done at our own doing.
So, we see the virtue of contentment and wonder how we are going to be able to have this virtue. And God (through Paul) is showing us that we can be content because of the power or strength given to us by the Lord.
Conclusion
The secret is Jesus and realizing that, like everything else, our life is not based upon our own doing, but upon the strength of the Lord. Don't trouble yourself with the "what-if's" of life, meaning, well, if I don't buy something then I won't get paid and my family won't survive. I may not understand it, but strength in the Lord means God will give me strength.
Does this mean we are to want nothing? That my money should only be spent on things that need replacement? I think it is okay to receive things, but we should be careful that we don't get in the habit of having to receive that which is new just for the sake of getting something new. If we couldn't get stuff that is new, would we be able to still be happiness and content? If not, then our focus has veered off center.
