The Secret Of Being Content | Finding Joy, Part 8

The Secret Of Being Content | Finding Joy, Part 8

What is the secret of being content in this life, no matter the situation?

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

This verse is often applied to:

Football

Finances

Future Dreams

Full Potential

The true context is about being:

Fulfilled in Christ

The Norm: Trying to find contentment by chasing after the things of this world.

The Tension: How can we possibly find contentment in a world that promotes more and better?

Philippians 4:10-20

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 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. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Paul’s secret for being content in all circumstances:

1. Depend on Christ’s Strength (v. 13)

“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.” – The Apostle Paul

True contentment is NOT found in external circumstances but an inward dependence on Christ.

2. Trust in God’s Provision (v. 10,14-18)

Paul knew their generosity reflected God’s provision:

“it was kind of you to share my trouble”

“no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only” “you sent me help for my needs once and again”

“I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied”

“God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them.” – John Piper

3. Prioritize Eternal Rewards over Earthly Treasurers (v. 17)

Matthew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

“Only one life, will soon be past; only what’s done for Christ shall last” – C.T. Studd

You may have nothing in this world but you still have everything in Christ.

“The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.” – Elisabeth Elliot

Key Question: If you lost everything today, would Christ still be enough for you?

Application:

• Reflect on an area where you feel discontent.
• Surrender those areas to Christ and find contentment in Him.
• Simplify one area of your life this week.