Describe Yourself

If I asked you to describe yourself, what word would you use? Would you say you are peaceful, tranquil, and satisfied or would you have to admit you are restless, anxious, and worried? If you could go back in time and ask the apostle Paul what word he would use to describe himself, he would most likely say, "Content."

Contentment doesn't come easy. In fact, Paul admitted it was something he had to learn. He said, "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need" (Philippians 4:11-12). Paul chose to place his contentment in the Lord regardless of his circumstances. He made a conscious decision, whether he had rags or riches, was full or famished, hurting or healthy, to be satisfied with what God provided. 

You know, society feeds our feelings of discontent, enticing us to buy the newest product, the better car, or the fashionable clothes (which will be out of style tomorrow!). But remember, when we complain, what we're really doing is telling God and others that we're not satisfied with His provision. In reality, true contentment doesn't come from what we have but Who we have. If you have a relationship with Jesus, you have everything you need! Jesus promised, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33, emphasis added). In other words, if you worry about His things, He'll worry about your things.

So the next time you find yourself complaining, turn your protest into a praise. You'll find that you, like Paul, can learn to be content regardless of your circumstances.