I believe that too often I am unaware of my circumstances. Not that I am lost or understanding of the things that are going on around me, but I am not aware of where I am and what I should be focusing on in those circumstances.
“12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” — Philippians 4:12 (ESV)
I look at the above and notice that Paul is fully aware of everywhere he finds himself. He knows when abundance is there and when there is need. He is understanding of where he is and what he should be focused on and not whether there is more for him.
I have to be more like Paul in my circumstances. I have to know that where I am I am supposed to be for the glory of God. I am here to serve Him and not myself. Whether there is abundance or need, I have to be there in the moment and look to what God has for me and not what it is that I want.
“11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:11&13 (ESV)
God is with me regardless of where I am. My circumstances are not important and my focus should be on Him and less on those things around me. I have to be using the strength He provides to do His work. My highs and lows are not the focus, but the work for Him, and He provides for that work every time. I have to be aware and content. I have to know that where I am, God has me. I have to know that whatever comes my way, He has planned for. I have to go wherever He asks me to do and do whatever He asks me to do. I have to be content in my service to God.
I have a friend that I may have spoken of before and he demonstrated this contentment in the work while he was in high school. He was a valued member of the baseball team and there were a number of games scheduled over the spring break time. He had committed to serve as a counselor on a youth trip with the church and elected for the trip as opposed to the games with high school. Needless to say, he was benched for a couple games for missing. Yet, my friend was content with his decision and focused on the work of God. He ended up playing ball in college and is much the better man for his contentment in that situation.
I have to remember that contentment is in all circumstances. I have to know why and when that why aligns with God, then that is where I am to be.
What circumstances have you been in that you may not have been content? Are you focused on the circumstance or the why you are there? What if you focused on the work of God instead of the circumstance to gain your contentment?
Trevor's Thoughts 