Kidzablaze Devotions

Philippians 4:10-13

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity.

11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.

12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.

13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

We usually associate contentment with good times—and if something goes wrong, our satisfaction vanishes. But that’s not what today’s passage is talking about. Paul learned to be content regardless of his conditions. This is wonderful news for us because it means we aren’t at the mercy of our circumstances. We, too, can learn to be content no matter what. We should remember: 

• Paul was content because he rested in God’s faithfulness. He knew the Lord was in full control and promised to work all things for His children’s good (Psalm 103:19; Romans 8:28). Paul had come to recognize that there was always security in God’s sovereign, loving hand.

• His contentment also flowed from a focus on Christ. Though writing from prison, Paul wasn’t wallowing in self-pity. Throughout the letter to the Philippians, he talked about Jesus. In fact, his greatest pursuit in life was to know Christ, His power, and the divine joy that came by sharing in His sufferings (Philippians 3:10). Every situation was a chance to know his Savior more intimately.

Circumstances can’t produce lasting contentment, but it can be found in Jesus. Surrendering our life to Him may not change the situation, but it will change us. Then, no matter what difficulties arise, we can be truly content.