Philippians 4
August 12, 2022
“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.” (v12-13)
Paul’s contentment is not in what he has, but in who he has. And it’s important to remember Paul is writing these words about contentment, not from some Mediterranean resort, but while he’s in prison, awaiting possible execution. And what school did Paul go to in order to learn this lesson of being content in any situation? He didn’t learn it at Pharisee University. No, he learned it at Christ University, matriculating into that school through faith in Jesus as Savior, and then surrendering to Jesus as Master Advisor, who then signed Paul up for a course called, ‘Adversity 101,’ which is where Paul began to learn this lesson. In fact, the reason Paul can testify to being content, even in prison – is because he has learned (over 30 years of adversity) that Christ really is enough.
Lord Jesus, I praise You that You are enough in any and every situation. I certainly haven’t faced the depths of poverty and persecution that Paul experienced, but I can still testify to Your strength in the midst of many different kinds of pain. And while I confess that I still sometimes kick against adversity when it comes my way, You are always faithful to sustain me through it, and to reveal Your sufficiency to me. Sometimes I would rather take an easy class that doesn’t make me work, but I thank You for the ‘adversity curriculum’ that is maturing me and apprenticing me for the assignments You have in store for me - both in this life and on the New Earth.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
