With the coronavirus continuing to spread, is it possible to be content?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot. Over the past few months, I’ve have days of discontentment, disappointment and frustration.
How about you?
I don’t know your situation. The impact of COVID-19 has varied greatly, depending on your particular location and individual circumstances.
In the midst of this crisis, it’s good to know that Scripture provides an example of a man who had a multitude of personal struggles, yet he continued to maintain an attitude of contentment. While imprisoned in Rome for preaching the gospel, the Apostle Paul wrote these words:
“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)
Paul says he “learned . . . to be content” in whatever situation he encountered. Other than Jesus, this man faced more trials and difficulties than perhaps any person in the Bible. And yet he remained content. This simple truth amazes me and begs the question, “How did he do it?”
Paul says he was content. Yet he doesn’t take credit for it.
The answer to this question is found in verse 13 – Paul was able to experience contentment while chained to a Roman soldier “through Him who strengthens me.” His contentment was the direct result of his intimate relationship to Jesus Christ. The King of the universe provided Paul with the strength to be content.
A life of contentment “in any and every circumstance” can be difficult and, at times, seem impractical if not humanly impossible. But when empowered by the Spirit of Christ who indwells us, a life of consistent contentment can be a reality – regardless of what is going on in the world or in your life.
Philippians 4:13 is one of the most misquoted verses in the Bible. When Paul says he can do “all things” through Jesus, he was speaking specifically of “all things” necessary for contentment.
In this season of stress, uncertainty and anxiety, do you lack contentment in Christ? If so, please be encouraged by the example of the Apostle Paul. What Jesus did for Paul, He can do for you and me, too.
True biblical contentment is found only in Jesus Christ. He is the source of our peace and joy. He is the One who can satisfy our soul regardless of external circumstances.
For more insights into the meaning of Philippians 4:11-13, please listen to and/or read these sermons by John MacArthur. This 3-part series entitled “The Secret of Contentment” is available free here:
https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/50-43/the-secret-of-contentment-part-1
https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/50-44/the-secret-of-contentment-part-2
https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/50-45/the-secret-of-contentment-part-3
I listened to them this past week and found them extremely helpful. Enjoy!
- What Is The Secret of Contentment? - August 19, 2020