Walking With Jesus (Self Control)Sýnishorn

Being content 

“Not that I speak regarding need, for 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

Feeling content is not an easy thing. In this modern world that is very consumer focused, humans tend to follow trends so that they are not left behind. We need many new things that tempt us every day: new clothes, new cars, new gadgets, and so on. This makes feeling content quite difficult because basically, humans have a nature to want more: they want to be more beautiful or handsome, they want to be richer, more respected, and so on.

Paul said that he "learns to be content." Of course, Paul did not learn this in his formal school, but from experience. Experience had taught him to be content with circumstances. He had experienced abundance and lacking.  At one time, he was hungry, and at another time, he was full. All of these were a lesson for him to be content. Being content here doesn't mean we have enough of everything. Being content means satisfied.

True contentment is hard to learn, but it is not impossible. We can learn it. How do we satisfy ourselves? How can we be content when many things do not satisfy us outwardly? For example, when we are still struggling to find a partner, our children who don't want to obey us, or a job that doesn't live up to our expectations. The answer is, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7). Praying with gratitude when we lack or in abundance, whether hungry or full, is the key to being content with the Lord. This peace of God is our true satisfaction. It is also the peace that guards our hearts and minds.

Reflection:

1. What makes it difficult for you to be satisfied or to be content? Why is that?

2. What do you do to satisfy yourself? Did it work?

Application: 

Continue learning to be content in all things. That's what God wants.