Philippians 4:10–13
The secret of the Christian life is not that our circumstances change, but that our standing in Christ stays firm. In our own strength we are weak, but in the power of Christ we can stand firm in any circumstance.
Paul’s joy was not in the value of the gift, but in the love and the spiritual growth of the believers at Philippi. By sending help to Paul, they had given proof of their faith. Paul understood that although they had wanted to care for him, they had not had the opportunity. It is clear here that everything moves according to God’s timing and plan. The word used here for “contentment” means to be “self-sufficient,” or “to have enough.” But for Paul this was not in his own strength; it was complete dependence on God. Contentment is not a quality we are born with; it is something learned through the ups and downs of life and through the many experiences of walking with Christ. Everyone faces the danger of forgetting God in times of plenty and of grumbling in times of need. Paul had learned to glorify God in both. He knew the secret of contentment, and it had set him free from being a slave to his outward circumstances.
In Philippians 4:13 Paul says, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” This Christ-centred strength is not a magic power or an ability to do anything at all in the world, nor is it Paul’s own willpower. It is the grace of Christ flowing continually into him. In the inner strength that Christ gives, Paul was ready to endure every circumstance and to be victorious.
The world says a person is content only after he has plenty. But Paul teaches that true contentment comes from within, from a close relationship with Christ. If Christ is in our life, we have the greatest wealth of all. He Himself meets our financial, spiritual and mental needs. It takes the strength of Christ not to boast in plenty, not to despair in need, and to remain steady and faithful in our calling.
Are you always looking for contentment in outward things? Do you complain about your present condition? Let us trust in Christ at all times, as Paul did. He will give you the strength you need for today. Christ Himself is enough for us. Give thanks today for what you have, and know the true secret of contentment.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to be content in every circumstance. Remind me that Your grace is enough for me. Give me Your strength. Amen.