Enjoy Life, Enjoy God

Content

September 6, 2010

When I was a boy, TV commercials ran for Carnation milk. Why was it so good, they asked. "Contented cows." A happy cow makes good milk so the logic runs.

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... - Philippians 4:11,2 TNIV

Yet "discontent" is one of the idols of our day and we spend much time worshipping at that altar. We are dissatisfied with our jobs, our possessions, our general situation in life, sometimes with cause, yet often destabilized by a culture of "I don't like it," "I'm dissatisfied." So we're often on the search for that which will satisfy.

Paul has a secret for us. It's Jesus the Christ. Yet many Christians pass by the secret: contentedness in Christ. He ends this teaching on "content" with these words: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." But note the "all things" of which he speaks is not about overcoming great challenges or fears, but winning the victory over discontent.
Joyfully,

Dale Patterson