stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 4:11-12)

A few years ago, my family had someone bless us financially when we needed to pay a medical bill. I had cut about everything possible and was looking into a part-time job. While there was a need, we were content. We knew God would provide in His timing and way. Our trust grew in the Lord, and we were comfortable even if the Lord had not provided financial help. That doesn’t mean we didn’t appreciate or need the help. It was timely, and we were extremely grateful. God had taught us something more significant than His ability to provide. He taught us to be patient – to trust Him no matter what.

Sometimes God provides in ways that stretch us. Maybe it’s an extra job. I’ve done that. Besides being a missionary, Paul was a tentmaker. Sometimes He provides through selling something He’s given in the past. I’ve sold musical instruments and guns to pay for kids’ medical bills. Sometimes, He passes through the generosity of others. When that happens, we must be humble enough to receive. The primary outcome in seasons of need is not the need always being met or how we think it should be met. Our immediate need is growing our trust in the Lord. This is growing in contentment.

In Philippians 4:10, Paul expressed his thankfulness for the Philippians’ generosity as he was in need and then told them in the next verse that he wasn’t in need. So, which was it? The answer was yes to both – he was and wasn’t. He wasn’t unappreciative, conflicted, or indifferent. He was content. This wasn’t automatically built into his life. He had to learn it over times of being in need and trusting in the Lord. He said, “I have learned the secret of being content in every situation” (v. 12). If I am worried or complain during need, I know my trust isn’t in the Lord. If I try to fulfill that need without prayer and in my ability or others, I know my trust isn’t in the Lord. Why is it a “secret”? Because so many people never learn it.

So, what is the secret? The secret is not going without, and it isn’t having it all. It’s not found in a wealthy friend or a “sure thing” job. It is in trusting the Lord with the outcome. Contentment is having confidence in the Lord’s ability to supply and being OK even if He never does. Paul said he was content when he was in need and hungry. The Lord supplied Paul’s meals and needs to this point, and He will do it again in His timing and way. Patiently serving the Lord while trusting in His provision is what grows our contentment.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Are you content? Do you trust the Lord with the outcome? 

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Where has discontentment crept in recently or in the past? What causes this? Read some verses about trusting in the Lord.

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Call a friend and talk about contentment. Discuss where you’ve been discontent in seasons of life. Pray with one another about growing in trust in the Lord.