I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Phil. 4:11-12 (ESV)
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Heb. 13:5 (ESV)
Do all things without grumbling. Phil. 2:14 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, I wish, as soon as you made us alive in Jesus, you would have given each of your children a PhD in contentment. But, alas, I’m still leaning the secret of this wonderful expression of your grace.
Of course, the gospel doesn’t call us to kill desire, demonize ambition, or embrace denial; and yet, at the same time, I totally “get” your warnings about complaining, ingratitude, and discontent. Left unchecked, these deadly toxins infect hearts and homes, friendships and the work place.
So I come to you, Father, once again, acknowledging a need you alone can meet. Please supersize the grace of contentment in my heart. Whether I have a little or a lot; am well known or forgotten; feast on filet mignon or yesterday’s “beanie-weenies.”
Whether I feel included or left out; celebrated or underappreciated; have discretionary funds for splurging, or financial pressures out the wazoo. Whether my relationships are “rocking” or rocky; whether I have great health or chronic discomfort; job security or vocational uncertainty… Father, I want to be content—not passive, but truly grateful—not immune to pain, but alive in Jesus.
Convict me by the Spirit when I start defaulting to whining, murmuring, and complaining. Father, heal me of gospel amnesia—too easily forgetting every good thing we have in Christ. I want to carp less and carpe diem more—seizing the day for your glory, by your grace. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ all-glorious and grace-full name.
