Every Wednesday
A Prayer for Contentment in All Circumstances
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“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).
When I was a kid, my mom taught my sisters and me the importance of contentment. Since we didn't have much money, it was important that we didn't yearn after the more expensive things in life. My mom didn't want to restrict us, but she also wanted us to be realistic. We didn't have the means to go on vacations every year, nor did we have trips to the mall every weekend. Because of our awareness of our situation, we rarely asked for the newest toys or devices. We had to learn the discipline of contentment from a young age.
Being content despite our circumstances is a discipline that we should continually cultivate. We can bring nothing with us when we leave this earth. Therefore, we must learn to be content with the idea that anything material will eventually pass away. The things we have in this world will not last forever. There will come a time when we will have to let them go.
The Apostle Paul tells us, “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).
As Paul says in this passage, there is great gain in learning to be content. He learned that the secret to contentment is found in Jesus Christ. Whether we have plenty or we are in need, we have enough because we know Jesus as our Savior and Lord. Although we may be struggling materially, physically, or financially, we still have all things in Christ. We are truly rich in Him.
With this contentment, we can do all things through Christ. Regardless of where we find ourselves throughout the years, we know that we are blessed in the Lord. He has graciously given us all things, and His name is to be praised (Romans 8:32). May we all worship Him with hearts of contentment.
Let's Pray:
Dear Jesus,
I come before You today asking You to help me to be content in all circumstances. Whether I have plenty or I am in need, please help me to be content. In truth, I have all things through You. Whether I'm rich, poor, needy, or well fed, I have enough because I have You. Help me remember this rather than falling into the cycle of wanting what I don't have.