Stephan Hoffman

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 10-13

Paul was grateful for the care he received from the church in Philippi. The intimate bond between him and the congregation is evident in the way he talks to them. He apologises on their behalf for not being able to show more concern for him and assures them that he has learned to be grateful and content under all circumstances.

It's easy to be positive and tolerant when things are going well with you. Our true character quickly emerges as soon as we experienced hardship. Just ask anyone who has completed a five-day hike with a rucksack on their back as well as suffering from the kind of hunger Paul experienced! Hardship in our daily lives can also bring out the worst in us, but Paul says that he is able to do everything through Christ who gives him strength.

Even amid the most difficult circumstances, hungry and in need, Paul says that he learned to be content. It looks as if peace is often found in contentment. We so easily become discontent. If my car breaks down or the power is off again, we are quick to express our dissatisfaction. People become discontent in relationships too. Spouses become dissatisfied with each other and quarrel or divorce, children become dissatisfied with their parents and rebel, employees become dissatisfied with their employers and strike.

Have you ever wondered what would have happened if Adam and Eve had been content to live in Paradise? Yes, we can even become dissatisfied with God and started blaming him for things that go wrong in our lives. However, Christ can help us to be cheerful, grateful and content in the midst of adversity and hardship.

Can you exclaim with Paul: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength!" Let’s say it one more time: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength!" Yes, there is nothing that can separate us from God's love in Jesus Christ (see Romans 8). Therefore, we can be content in all circumstances.

Prayer: Lord, please help me to realise how privileged I am and how blessed I am. Help me not to become dissatisfied and not to compare myself to other people's prosperity and success. Help me to remember that I am able to do everything through you who gives me strength. Thank you Lord; I am satisfied with what I have, who I am and with my circumstances. Amen.