For I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11b-13, NRSV)
This verse from Philippians is one of my favorite verses. But it also has the possibilities to be taken out of context.
The picture here is actually of a plaque I have on my desk. And I have seen this verse on many a sports poster with some athlete doing something amazing, because God gives me the strength through Jesus to do wonderful miraculous things. But that forgets verses 11b and 12.
You see God in Christ never promised us a rose garden to walk through. He never promised us our lives would be easy once we believed in Jesus. And that is something Paul got. Paul was one who was in and out of prison because of his belief in Jesus, but he never lost heart.
Paul tells us he has found the secret to being content. Not to having it all together, not to not having any problems. Paul has learned that even in the tough times, through the valleys that Christ is with him, and because of Jesus always being with him, any and all circumstances will be ok.
I love this verse in the Message by Eugene Peterson:
I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. (Philippians 4:11b-13, Message)
“Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.” If we can cling to Jesus we will make it through any and all circumstances.
So let us Gather in His name, Grow as His disciples, and Go into the world sharing His grace, mercy and love with all we meet, clinging to Him. And when we do this, we will be a beacon of hope for our community
aSacredRebel 