I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
Philippians 4:11 NIV
Learned Contentment
Canada is the happiest country in the G7, according to the World Happiness Report. While Canada remains the only G7 member in the Top 20, the U.S. slides to its lowest-ever position. The U.K. and the U.S. have fallen out of the top 20. Canada is one of the great global powers left in the top 20. Nordic countries remain at the top with Finland holding the number one spot for the eighth year in a row. Other countries, like Mexico, have jumped up in the ranks.
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There are a lot of reasons Canadians are consistently near the top of the World Happiness Report. While life for many in our nation is challenging, there is much for which we can be thankful. In a world filled with war, famine, disease, and financial instability, we live in peace with a decent social safety net. At the same time, when the pressure comes, many too easily run out of the ability to cope. That is common in our world. What is uncommon is Paul’s statement in Philippians 4:11: “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Paul didn’t live an easy life. In his epistles, he outlines the challenges that he faced for boldly proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So how did he learn to be content whatever the circumstances? He had discovered the faithfulness of Jesus. He trusted that no matter what came his way, God had everything under control. We need to reach the place where we are convinced of this too – and when we do, we will be content.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley