Struggling with keeping up with the Kardashians, Jones’s, Powell’s, Mitchell’s, etc? Finding yourself lost in ‘if only’s’? Today’s Holy Nougat just might be the antidote for our angst
“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.” Philippians 4:11 NLT
What is the secret to our contentment? Or are we never content? For some of us, the challenge is not contentment per se, as it is a sense of entitlement that suggests the world owes us and is taking too long to pay the outstanding credit note. And while this nougat is clearly not a ‘we don’t need to help the downtrodden, destitute, disenfranchised, diseased, or distressed; his statement poses a challenge to those of us who are self-absorbed.
This closing argument, following on the heels of his whatsoevers, begins with a recognition of the Philippian church’s desire to offer additional support to his ministry. Rather than abuse their offer to help, Paul notes that he’s fine with what he has. And it is a bit heady to know that there are people in our respective corners, but what i also hear is, ‘Look to the Source’. For truly, God Who provided Elijah food via a Raven, placed an oasis in the desert for Hagar and Ishmael, and had a stable ready for Jesus’ birth is our God Jehovah Jireh.
Furthermore, contentment denotes a sense of self, both in self-confidence and in our awareness of our spiritual heritage. That we know Whose we are, children of God’s love. This assurance carries the weight of being more than conquerors because of Jesus Christ. It is grounded in the knowledge that God’s Spirit not only lives within, but also intercedes for each of us as/when necessary.
So rather than get a complex for not being as current as the Kardashians, Jones’s, Powell’s, Mitchell’s, etc; let’s learn to be content and spread contentment in the lives of others. May God’s Spirit lead us.
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A word from Jenn says
“Philippians 4:11 (to 13)…impacted me as a young woman dealing with many of the struggles of leaving family and going to a new country +++….that having read through the bible and the MANY challenges encountered by the Apostle Paul…this verse provides comfort that God is with me in ALL circumstances and he will keep me …according to his perfect will…