Contentment in Christ

Philippians 4:11 states, “Not that speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

Webster defines contentment as “the quality or state of being content.” Contentment is a state of satisfaction or peaceful happiness. As Christians our contentment is in Christ; our joy should entirely be found in Him. The amplified Bible interprets Philippians 4:11 as, “Not that I speak from (any personal) need, for I have learned to be content (and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy) regardless of my circumstances.” The apostle Paul was content because he saw his life from God’s point of view. When we learn to see from God’s point of view instead of just our own, we can then learn to be content with what He has for us.

Horatio G. Spafford wrote the famous words, “Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well with my soul.” Even in difficult times, we can be content when our hearts are clear before God. Often we have a tendency to be discontent with where God has placed us or with what He has given us. To be contentment, we must learn to have a grateful attitude, realizing that God is in complete control.

By Kailyn Hollabaugh