It Starts Small

¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² 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, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:11-13

the secret of being content

Paul endured countless trials in his steadfast service to Christ, each more challenging than the last. Shipwrecks, imprisonments, scourging, stoning, and beating were just a few of the brutal hardships that marked his journey. It might seem that these dire circumstances taught him to find contentment. However, that view would be an oversimplification. Many suffer yet remain discontent. The truth is far deeper. God masterfully used each trial Paul faced. These trials forged within him a profound understanding of true contentment. Nevertheless, even this resilient apostle had to wrestle and learn this vital lesson.

What is the secret of contentment?

Paul already told us of his mindset in following after Christ.

 ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 3:7-9

He passionately counted all the things in this world as mere rubbish. He dedicated his heart and soul entirely to the pursuit of Christ. This, truly, is the vital key to finding real contentment. When a person fervently places his heart on earthly things, there are two powerful outcomes that can unfold:

He relentlessly pursues his desires, believing that they hold the key to his happiness. Yet, as the veil lifts, he discovers that fulfillment remains elusive, leaving an aching void beneath his accomplishments. When one chases after the allure of marriage, he hopes to find happiness. The magnetic pull of wealth entices him similarly. The intoxicating rush of achievement is another pursuit. The dazzling glow of fame completes this cycle. However, he ultimately uncovers a stark truth: none of these can truly satiate the soul’s yearning for genuine contentment.

He doesn’t get what he wants. And then he is discontent because he doesn’t get what he hoped for.

⁴ Take delight in the Lord,
    and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:4

Contentment does not depend on circumstances. It is a mindset. It comes from a relationship with and a reliance upon God. It is possible to be content, and even joyful in every circumstance (Habakkuk 3:17-19).

¹⁷ Though the fig tree does not bud
    and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
    and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
    and no cattle in the stalls,
¹⁸ yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
    I will be joyful in God my Savior.

¹⁹ The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
    he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
    he enables me to tread on the heights.

For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Are you truly content in your soul? Is there a longing deep within you for something you desire but haven’t grasped yet, leaving you feeling unfulfilled? Take a moment to immerse yourself in heartfelt prayer and declare to God that He alone is enough for you. Plead with Him to fill your heart with satisfaction. Ask Him to transform your desires so they align perfectly with His glorious will.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me

Philippians 4:13 is an incredible verse, but its power is often misunderstood and taken out of context. This verse frequently graces verse cards. Countless individuals commit it to memory. They boldly assert that they can achieve anything through God’s mighty strength. It’s easy to see how such a declaration might lead some astray. Just imagine a free climber twisting these words to justify perilous ascents without ropes, believing they can conquer any cliff. Or picture a bank robber clinging to this statement as if it were God’s promise of their success. The implications are profound. They serve as a crucial reminder to approach this verse with the reverence and understanding it truly deserves.

These extreme examples vividly illustrate that, in truth, they hold no real meaning. One fundamental condition is that these actions are empowered by God, who imparts strength. Since God would never endorse sin, any foolish, reckless, or sinful action stands in stark contrast to this divine promise. This is indisputable! Yet, Christians often attempt to seize this promise to justify many other benevolent endeavors. These endeavors also fall outside the scope of this declaration. A crucial principle when interpreting Scripture is to remain attentive to the context. It is the context that truly defines the significance of the statement found in verse 13.

What is the context?

It is a vibrant journey towards genuine contentment! We dive deep into the context. This immersion helps us uncover the profound meaning of verse 13: “I can find contentment in any circumstance through the one who empowers me.” This remarkable contentment springs not from mere willpower but from an unwavering trust in God. It is God who bestows the incredible strength needed to face life’s trials with unwavering, joyful contentment!

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Cross Reference verses on Contentment:

• Psalms 37:16
• 1 Timothy 6:6, 8
• Hebrews 13:5
• Ecclesiastes 5:10
• Luke 12:15

Discussion Questions

• What was Paul’s motivation for bringing this up with them?
• Are you content?
• Can you give any example where perhaps you were recently, or any time you can remember, not content? What caused this?
• Was Paul content because circumstances were favorable? What kind of unfavorable circumstances did he endure?
• What is the root cause of discontent? What are opposites of contentment (envy, coveting, complaining, etc.)?
• Does Paul teach that having a lot is not good?
• What was the “secret” of Paul’s contentment?
• What is the world’s solution when they are discontent? What are common areas of discontent?
• Verse 13 is often pulled out of context as a sort of super-man verse, telling Christians we can do anything. Looking at it in context, what can we learn about what Paul is really saying here?
• Can you think of any examples in the Bible of believers who lacked what they needed, and God provided for them? (Israel in the wilderness, Elijah…)

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