“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

This statement was written by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the church at Philippi. I dare say it is one of the most recognized verses in the New Testament, and it is quoted often by Christians, particularly ones who are facing great obstacles. But something that I’m learning more now than ever is that, in order to study scripture, you must read it in context. And what is the context of this verse? Paul was not speaking about a particular trial. He was speaking about contentment.

“I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 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 everything through him who gives me strength.” -Philippians 4:10-13

Being content is not just accepting one’s lot in life - nor is it denial. Contentment is living independent of one’s circumstances. It is being okay regardless of what one faces. Few can do this for any length of time with their own strength. None of us can do it for a lifetime. And yet, as Christians, to that we are called. So how, as followers of Christ, are we to become content?

To be content, one must start by not grumbling. We have to discipline our mouths. God hates grumbling! Next, we need to remove our sense of entitlement. We must remember that if we each got what we deserved, we would face the wrath of God. Praise be to Jesus for taking that wrath for us! Finally, one must be thankful. God wants to hear thanks from us! If life gets too hard to find things to be thankful for, then thank God for his son Jesus.

“So that’s it?” you say. “That can’t possibly be all there is to it.” And experience is in agreement with you. Even by following these guidelines, contentment is impossible. So what is the “secret of being content” of which Paul speaks? It is the strength of God. To find contentment, we must add the strength of God to our own efforts. And this is where faith kicks in. We have to trust that by not grumbling, removing our sense of entitlement, and always giving thanks to God, our Father will give us the strength we need to live independent of our circumstances. And he will. But we must take that step of faith first.

The next time you feel dissatisfied or unhappy about your lot in life, ask God to give you a sense of contentment. And start walking it out. And I promise you that, little by little, God will honor your faithfulness.

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