Do You Know the Secret?

"...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation..."  Did you know there was a secret to being content in every single situation?  I did not know there was a secret, but Paul managed to find it.  This verse is taken from Philippians 4:12.  Let me remind you of Paul's circumstance while he was writing Philippians.  Paul was in Rome and under arrest.  Philippians is considered one of his "prison epistles."  But even though Paul was facing extreme persecution he was still able to write, "...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation..."  

Let's put this portion of Philippians 4:12 into context.  "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the 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, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:11-13.  Can you imagine being completely content in Paul's situation?

Paul concluded his passage on being content with a verse many of you probably have memorized: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength," Philippians 4:13.  Paul knew he could be content in every situation because Christ was giving him the strength to do so.  So, what was Paul's secret?  Paul had resolved to find contentment in any and every situation.  He made a conscious decision to find his contentment in Christ.  Did I mention he was under persecution at the time he wrote this?!  If Paul can be content while under arrest, then why is it so difficult for us to be content in our "every day" circumstances? 

In order to find true contentment in Christ, we need to refocus our minds.  We need to think on Him and His works!  "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."  Notice, once again, that this verse comes from Philippians (chapter 4, verse 8) which means it was written by Paul while he was under arrest.  What a great example of how to remain content!

God gives us so much to be happy and excited about!  We need to slow down and just enjoy what is right in front of us.  We miss so many great blessings from God when we aren't content in any circumstance.  Let me share something with you that Stellar Kart shared with me: If you are never content, you will always be waiting!  Take the time to watch this video and read the lyrics!