Nov 07 – CONTENTMENT OF HEART

“…for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content…Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need”. (Philippians 4:11,12)

In the above verse, Apostle Paul talks about having learned and having been taught. There are certain things that you learn on your own. And there are certain other things which you learn through the teaching of others. There are many truths that Paul would have learned through his own experience, to build up his spiritual life. And there are other truths which are taught by the Lord, through various situations. And it is a great privilege to remain content in all situations.

There were heavy storms in the life of a faithful servant, and he was passing through dense woods, with a heavy heart. Then suddenly there was a heavy wind breaking branches of trees and scattering all the dry leaves on the ground. The believer was thinking to himself, why there should be such a heavy storm in his life and also in his path.

Then the Lord spoke to him through the storm, saying: “Son, do you not understand the benefit of this heavy storm to the trees? While it is true, that the trees are shaken, it is only because of such a storm, that their roots are strengthened by reaching out deeper into the earth. The wind also breaks away the weak branches and removes all the dry leaves, thus renewing and regenerating the trees.

Additionally, because of the wind, the seeds of the trees are scattered over a large area, making it possible to create new trees all around. In a similar manner, when tempests rage in your life, it takes you to deeper spiritual experiences and grants you the grace to cling on to God even more closely”. From that day onwards, the believer learned to remain content in his heart, irrespective of the situation.

It is true that Paul was one of the great apostles, and he was able to lead countless people into redemption. But he was tormented by a thorn in the flesh, which he called the ‘messenger of Satan’. But even in that situation, he learned to remain content in his heart.

David was one of the great kings in the history. But even in his family there was rivalry among children. He was also chased by his own sons. Abraham had great faith and is considered as the Father of Faithful. But even he had to go through the path of turbulence, because of his beautiful wife.

Dear children of God, whatever is your situation today, whether suffering in need, or in abundance, whether in tumult or in peace, learn to remain content and joyful in the Lord. That will be a great blessing in your life.

Verse for further meditation: Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, Than great treasure with trouble. (Proverbs 15:16)