I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Phil. 4:11-13 NLT
But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Tim. 6:8 NIV
Jesus, when I begin to indulge a spirit of discontent and complaining, comparison and envy, I’d love to blame it on the barrage of ads, seizing screen-time through the internet; alluring billboards lining the highways; and sensual commercials trying to sell me stuff I didn’t know I need. But the problem isn’t “out there,” it’s in here—in my heart.
So I’m back in school, Jesus—the school of gratitude, contentment, and waiting. I can do all things through you, for you promise all the strength we need to do anything you commend and command.
Therefore, give me strength, Jesus, to accept the body you made for me, the story you’re writing for me, and the things you entrusted to me. Help me to compare less, and rest more; stress less, and rejoice more; grasp less, and enjoy more.
Jesus, help me spend less time wondering why you haven’t answered certain prayers the way I want you to; help me spend less time pondering why you haven’t taken my counsel, when I make so much sense (wink, wink); and help me spend less time stewing about things and people over which you never promised me control.
When you give me way more than I need (which is most of the time), help me be way more grateful and generous. When I’m in moments, or seasons, or financial and physical, emotional and mental, spiritual and attitudinal lack, I will trust you, Jesus, to supply what I need, to live and to love to your glory. You’ve given your very life for my salvation; surely I can trust you to give me everything else I truly need. So very Amen I pray, in your loving and strong name.
