Pastor's Ponderings, August 31, 2015

Contentment Is Awesome

As a child, I remember Elsie, the cartoon mascot for the Borden Dairy Company. They promoted the idea that their cows were very happy and content producing milk in their good life. Despite the sometimes unpleasant realities of the food industry, if we take a moment and focus on that fictional character we may learn something.  Elsie had a job to do and seemed quite content in her lot in life. It is rare today to see people who just seem happy and rejoice in being alive. Instead, many of us are worried, anxious, sad, guilty, or angry over failed expectations.

The Bible states that God wants us content (Philippians 4:11, 12, 1 Timothy 6:6, 8). He does not want us fretting because of what we have or don’t have.  He does not want us despondent over our lack of accomplishments or worried that we will never reach our goals but instead to give those concerns to him (Philippians 4:6). We can be content with our circumstances knowing that God gives us strength to face all of life's demands (Philippians 4:13). He promises that He will supply everything that we need based on His infinite resources (Philippians 4:19).

This week, let us make the decision that we will not allow our circumstances to determine our attitude.  We are God’s children. He loves us better than we love ourselves so let us cast all of those feelings of despair, worry, anxiety, sadness, guilt, or anger over to God and be content with Him alone.

Philippians 4:11-13, 19
New International Version (NIV)

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.

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6
New International Version (NIV)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

1 Timothy 6:6, 8
New International Version (NIV)

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.