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Learn to be content (1)
'I have learned the secret of being content...' Philippians 4:12
So, what's the secret of being content? Here are three things that may help you on your way...
1) Learn to be happy with less. Happiness isn't about getting what you want, but about enjoying what God's given you. Make a list of good things in your life, and thank God for them today. Paul said he had learned to be content, 'Whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.'
2) Remind yourself things could be worse. Snoopy was lying in his kennel oneThanksgiving Day, mumbling about being stuck with dog food while all those humans got to be inside with the turkey and gravy and pumpkin pie. 'Of course, it could have been worse,' he finally reflected, 'I could have been born a turkey.' Reminding yourself 'It could be worse' can really help you to develop contentment.
3) Know that you're going for spiritual contentment, not just stuff. We may want more stuff, but underneath that is what we really want; God, the perfection of heaven - and that's to come. You're unlikely to feel totally content, as this world isn't your ultimate home; heaven is. Today, try flipping your discontent on its head, and using it to pray 'Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven' (Matthew 6:10 NIV).
written by Bob Gass
'I have learned the secret of being content...' Philippians 4:12
So, what's the secret of being content? Here are three things that may help you on your way...
1) Learn to be happy with less. Happiness isn't about getting what you want, but about enjoying what God's given you. Make a list of good things in your life, and thank God for them today. Paul said he had learned to be content, 'Whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.'
2) Remind yourself things could be worse. Snoopy was lying in his kennel oneThanksgiving Day, mumbling about being stuck with dog food while all those humans got to be inside with the turkey and gravy and pumpkin pie. 'Of course, it could have been worse,' he finally reflected, 'I could have been born a turkey.' Reminding yourself 'It could be worse' can really help you to develop contentment.
3) Know that you're going for spiritual contentment, not just stuff. We may want more stuff, but underneath that is what we really want; God, the perfection of heaven - and that's to come. You're unlikely to feel totally content, as this world isn't your ultimate home; heaven is. Today, try flipping your discontent on its head, and using it to pray 'Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven' (Matthew 6:10 NIV).
written by Bob Gass
