Daily Devotion: Intentional Contentment

Scripture:
Philippians 4: 10-20

Main Verse:
Philippians 4: 12
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.

Observation:
Paul's letter to the Philippians while he was in prison was a lesson about contentment. You see, he was in a very difficult situation, yet he has learned to be contented and to give thanks to the Lord and the Philippian church for the concern that they have shown to him. He learned to be satisfied and to have peace of mind no matter the circumstance. He did not complain when he was in prison and relied on the strength that the Lord provided for him.

When we are in a difficult or uncomfortable situation, our first reaction is to complain. How many times have you complained about the hot and humid weather during summer, and asked the Lord to let it rain? And when it rained, didn't you hope the rains would stop and the sun would shine? We always have something to complain about. Instead of being grateful for what we have, we grumble about what we have received.

Application:
More often, we are so busy complaining that we forget to be thankful to the Hand that has provided us with all our needs. We fix our eyes on our discomforts and forget that we are blessed. We need to practice intentional contentment and practice controlling our desire to have more or to have something else. The Lord wants us to live differently. When everybody else is complaining, we should start counting our blessings.

Prayer:
Lord, indeed there is a lot that I should be thankful of. I am sorry for being discontented sometimes and for failing to show my gratitude. Forgive me for seeing only what is imperfect or inadequate. But Lord, please know that I am forever grateful for the sacrifice you have done for me on the cross, for the forgiveness of my sins, and the redemption of my spirit. I will strive to be more intentionally contented in every circumstance. I believe that with the help of the Holy Spirit, I can triumph over the spirit of discontent. Thank you, Lord, for revealing your message to me. All honor and glory and praises I lift to You forever and ever. AMEN.