"Contentment in Every Season"
In Philippians 4:11-13 we have Paul in the midst of a Roman prison who writes these impactful and inspiring words:
“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me.”
Paul writes this at the end of the letter to the church at Phillipi. The Apostle Paul, imprisoned, suffering for the sake of the Gospel pens these profound words on contentment. What a positive attitude and statement of fact independent of his situation. This passage has spoken to me and continues to in an incredible way that in the middle of suffering, no matter where you are, or who is around us we can learn to be content through every season of our lives.
Paul’s life has taught me that contentment is a learned state of mind. Though you might be enduring something you do not want to endure, or you’re in a place you do not understand why; regardless of our circumstances, we can learn to have supernatural joy and contentment that only the Lord gives. It is unnatural. It is supernatural. Whether it is a relationship, financial, physical, or spiritual battle you have or will face; learn that our source of strength, joy, and contentment comes from God.
Secondly, I have learned that God is always working. God wants to mold us and shape us to be more like Him. There are ups and downs, days of hallelujahs and tears. The Apostle Paul was deserted by many because he preached the gospel. Was it worth it? It was for my family; I left a comfortable life as a pastor’s wife, sold everything, learned Portuguese, and left all I knew to go reach people who have never heard in Brazil. It was worth every struggle, tear, and difficulty because God was and is always working in every season to get us where we need to be- we just need to trust in His perfect plan.
From my first of seven major surgeries at 18, to my brain tumor at 22, to serving as a pastor’s wife and then missionary wife, and every day and situation in between until now. I can continue to learn and say like Paul: “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” This contentment isn't a fuzzy feeling; it’s a daily surrender. When we stop focusing on the "bad" in our lives and fix our eyes on the One who gave us life, everything changes.
He didn’t save us just to survive every season—He saved us to serve Him throughout every season of life. Focus on the eternal not on the temporary! Let’s all joyfully serve our Lord!