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- Philippians 4:10-13
Philippians 4:10-13
“We buy things we don’t need, with money we don’t have, to impress people we don’t even like.” This is an often-said quote from Christian finance expert Dave Ramsey. He talks about this in the context of so many people drowning in debt in pursuit of a fleeting sense of status or fulfillment.
Our commercialized culture is relentless with messaging suggesting our next purchase will make us happy. Access to credit only fuels this temptation as there is no need to wait for the next thing; we can get it now and pay later.
Paul’s message to the Philippians is counter-cultural to what we hear daily.
10 How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. 11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Inspiring words, considering they were written by the Apostle Paul while he was in jail! He was never in need because he learned to be content with whatever he had. If we’re honest with ourselves, we often confuse the words ‘want’ and ‘need.’
As Paul illustrates, contentment is not contingent on external circumstances or material acquisitions. It's a state of being grounded in long-term satisfaction with what we have and who we are—a contentment that transcends fleeting desires and finds its source in Christ, who strengthens us in every situation.
In a world where pursuing more can lead to spiritual impoverishment, may we heed Paul's wisdom and discover the richness of contentment only found through faith in Christ.
Choose an attitude of gratitude as you start your day. What are 5 things you’re thankful for today?