-Contentment and Joy ~
-Philippians 4:4-13

"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 4:12)

Today I write about something I'm still working on: contentment. I suspect I am not alone. 17th century Puritan Jeremiah Burroughs wrote that contentment is a "rare jewel" in the Christian faith. How true. And how I long for it not to be rare, but to be common in my life! Contentment is much more than just feeling that things are going well. There is certainly no shortage of evil in this sin-stricken world. But when I can look at my whole life and know that whatever God has given me is for my good and His glory, I am beginning to know contentment.

Am I really satisfied and joy-filled in what God has given me? Often the nation of Israel complained against God even though He had provided for them. Their lack of contentment is a stark picture of our own tendency to complain against God. He has full rights to our lives. We can experience contentment and be assured by the words of Octavius Winslow that "in the case of every child of God, calamity never comes alone; it invariably brings Jesus with it."
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We are God's work in progress. Enjoying His promises and contentment with the freedom He brings.
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I'm often reminded of the verse, "In all things give thanks for this is the will of God, in Christ Jesus concerning you."

NOTICE IT SAYS: "IN" ALL THINGS, NOT "FOR ALL THINGS".
It wasn't easy for Jesus, should we expect any better? Press on, in Jesus Name! He is with you ALWAYS!
"I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Have you talked with Him today? He is as close as the mention of His Name. "Jesus, thank you for loving me, for dying for me, and all the blessings you bestow on me. I give you praise for Who you are, not for what you do."