Contentment, Because God Will Provide - Philippians 4:10-23

In every season of our lives, we must steadfastly believe that God's provision is constant and unwavering. 

No matter the situation, we are to understand where our strength comes from…from Christ. And it is through Christ that we will find our contentment. 


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Philippians 4:10-23

¹⁰ But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, you lacked opportunity. ¹¹ Not that I speak regarding need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: ¹² I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. ¹³ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

¹⁴ Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. ¹⁵ Now you Philippians know also that at the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. ¹⁶ For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. ¹⁷ Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. ¹⁸ Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ²⁰ Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

²¹ Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. ²² All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household.
²³ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
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Paul experienced much hardship throughout his ministry, but he rejoiced in God's provision. God used people and churches to enable Paul's ministry. However, Paul informs the Philippians that despite his times of need or abundance, he fully understands and trusts in God's provisions. He has learned to be content with what he has, whether in times of abundance or need. Paul's remarkable contentment was not contingent on favorable external circumstances but was deeply rooted in his intimate relationship with Christ.

Paul understands where his strength comes from. He understands that it is through Christ who strengthens him. But this is learned through complete submission to Christ. Paul understands how to be ‘still’ and listen to God. He knows how to sit at Jesus' feet and be obedient. When we become obedient, and focused on Christ, we can fully understand our reliance upon God. We genuinely appreciate that “I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.” Paul emphasizes the importance of placing trust in Christ's strength, acknowledging that His grace is sufficient to carry us through any trial or difficulty we may encounter. We can experience a profound peace that transcends our circumstances by surrendering our worries and anxieties to Him.

This passage encourages us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, recognizing the countless blessings and gifts we receive daily. Expressing gratitude can shift our focus from what we lack to the abundance that surrounds us, fostering a sense of contentment and joy.

Additionally, this section points out the significance of being a source of support and encouragement to others. By extending compassion, empathy, and a listening ear to those around us, we can not only uplift their spirits but also find fulfillment and meaning in our own lives.

Therefore, we can use Paul's contentment as an example of what we should strive for. His contentment came from trusting in Christ's strength and finding gratitude. The passage encourages cultivating this mindset and supporting others when given the opportunity. .
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