Be content in all circumstances

BE CONTENT IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES

 

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation . . . (Phil. 4:12 NIV).

 

Just after I received my pilot's license, I took one of my nephews for his first plane ride. I was amused as I watched him out of the corner of my eye. While we climbed higher, he was doing his best to mentally keep contact with the ground. After reaching our desired altitude and flying for several minutes, I pushed the nose of the plane forward and dropped down several feet. My nephew looked as though he could keep himself up in the air by the sheer force of his will.

 

Finally I said, "Son, if you would just relax and go where the plane goes, you'll enjoy the ride much more."

 

Often people struggle to keep life on an even keel. But life isn't like that. It has its ups and they are great. But life also has its downs, and sometimes they come swiftly and abruptly.

 

Paul says we need to learn contentment in all circumstances. The poor need to have simple trust, believing God will take care of them. The rich must understand that all they have belongs to God and they are simply stewards who must give an account.

 

Life response: In what area of my life am I discontent? What can I do to "learn to be content" in that area?