Monday 10 May, 2021

10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 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, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.

Verse 13 has been quoted in all manner of circumstances, I know I have done this. However, in its context here, being able to do all things in Christ relates to how we are to live. Being content. Whether having plenty or not .. we are to live contented in Christ. Jesus is our enabler .. not fame or fortune or the latest advertising that we are told we must have to make us happy.

I love the way that the Message version phrases this, “I can make it through anything in the One that makes me who I am.” Being content and satisfied is truely something to strive for, and only by focusing everything through Jesus will we find this.

Lord I need your true contentment in every aspect of my life. Holy Spirit help me in keeping Jesus central to who I am.

Written by Suzie Hodgson