Dave’s Monday Blast – March 21, 2016
“Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” Philippians 4:11 & 12. What is the secret to ‘REAL CONTENTMENT’? It is found in verse 13, “I can do all things (referring to being content ‘in spite of’) through Christ who strengthens me.” The secret is understanding by faith the following truths:
- God is in control of everything.Without this assurance, the world is a scary place. (Job 42:2)
- He loves me and will see me through every circumstance, no matter how difficult or painful it may be. (Psalm 18:1-3)
- To have Christ’s peace, I must surrender my life to Him. When I hold onto my ways and plans, I’ll experience turmoil. (John 3:16)
- I have a limited perspective and understanding of my circumstances and God’s purposes for allowing them.His goals for me are greater than my immediate comfort. (Jeremiah 29:11)
- The Lord promises to work all things out for my good. He is continually working to transform my character into Christ’s image. (Romans 8:28)
- I must live in sync with God, walking in the Spirit and promptly confessing and repenting of sin. (I John 1:9)
- Scripture is my foundation for peace.It increases my trust in the Lord’s goodness, assures me that He keeps His promises, and reminds me of His sovereignty over every situation. (Ephesians 6:10-19). So INTENTIONALmen know they must be saturated with His Word every day!
What we are all seeking is peace. It is highly valued by humanity in every culture. In truth, peace and contentment are bedfellows. How do we experience peace? Again, it is not dependent upon external circumstances, but rather it transcends them. Peace is not possible on any level unless we are at peace with our Heavenly Father. Although He gives His peace to every believer as a gift (John 14:27), our experience of it is related to our faith in the truths stated in Scripture.
Bottom Line…either God does have a perfect plan that He is executing for our good and His glory or He does not! God either is in control of EVERYTHING or He is not. My prayer for you this week my friends is that you experience that peace from Him that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
