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 (NIV)
Contentment
According to the 2021 World Happiness Index, Canada was rated as the 14th happiest country in the world out of the 149 that were measured. The Great White North dropped three places from last year, and five spots from its 2019 ranking. Finland, Denmark, and Switzerland were named as the three happiest countries in the world, respectively, for the second year in a row. As the 19th happiest country, the United States dropped one spot from its place in the previous year’s report.
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It has been said that contentment is the greatest treasure. Paul the apostle would have agreed with this. In Philippians 4:11-13 he wrote: “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.” The follower of Jesus learns something about Jesus – that no matter what we are facing, Jesus provides the strength we need for contentment. He does not remove us from challenging times. He doesn’t take away the pressures of life. In the midst of all that comes our way, He moves in to be our constant companion and the One who gives us peace and victory. Paul didn’t have an easy time during His ministry and would eventually die a martyr’s death. Through it all, the Lord Jesus was with him. And He is with you as well. May you experience His contentment in all situations.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley