“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”
Philippians 4:11-12 KJV
The other day I sat on my couch in the living room, turned everything off and just thanked God.
I didn’t think about the fact my roof needs fixing or the baseboards need to be wiped down or the few dishes in the sink. I just thanked God for over 20 years of homeownership and the ability to pay my mortgage.
Yes, I hope one day to move. I brought this house with intentions to move out of it one day. At this moment though, I’m grateful for what I have and prayerful to move forward.
I am content.
I remember my past. I’m fine and appreciative with where I am, I have my eye on what could possibly come to pass.
Be full and hungry…
There’s always room for growth and change. God does not want us to sit and settle. Yes, He wants us to marvel in what He’s allowed us to achieve or receive, but He also wants us to continue to grow and to go to the next level. He wants us to look and move forward, but also be content.
I admit I’m guilty of settling. (I’m about to make some statements not to brag, but to make a point.).
With the help of God, I’ve run an Education/Youth department at a church. I ran and taught Sunday School and Youth Bible study for several years. I organized and wrote original curriculum for Vacation Bible School for numerous years. I wrote and self-published a devotional book. I’ve sung. I have had opportunity to bring the Word forth in front of a congregation. Most importantly, I’ve assisted in leading folk to Christ.
Honestly, most of that stuff mentioned has taken place at least 5 to 6 years ago. I think I’ve sat “full” for a while, not being hungry for – “What’s next Lord?” I’m not sure if my inaction was out of fear or frustration. That would take more analysis on my part to pinpoint…
What I DO know – Paul wrote the portion of scripture above in the book of Philippians to the people and church in Phillipi. In chapter 1 he thanks God for them. He talks about the fact that they have established a relationship with Christ and that God “will continue to perform” the good work He started within them. (Philippians 1:6) He recognized the state/level they were, but also made them mindful and hopeful that there is more!
Be content, but there is more…
I believe there is a difference between settling and being content. Settling means you’re done, you’ve given up, you’re stuck and you aren’t moving or progressing. Being content is a state of mind which has no negative affect on movement or growth. There is still opportunity.
There is hope!
So, if like me you have possibly settled out of fear or frustration because you are afraid to say, “What next God?” – look to the next verse in Philippians chapter 4 for encouragement –
“I can do all things through Christ Jesus which strengtheneth me.”
He’s faithful that hath promised…
Let us pray – Lord, we recognize you are the Master Planner. We want to hunger and thirst after You. We ask you to continue to “grow us” and that we continue to “abound“ in your grace, knowledge, wisdom and works. Please take away all things that may hinder and stop us from settling so that we are content and your Glory may be evident. We will be careful to give back all the glory, honor and praise to You – Amen.
lifeandgodliness 