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Biblical contentment is something Christ teaches us in plenty and in need. When we find ourselves thinking that one change would finally make us content, Philippians 4:11–13 directs us to the strength Christ gives us to live faithfully in the circumstances we face today.
On this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains what Paul means in Philippians 4:13 and how we can pray for change, take wise steps, and trust God with the outcome.
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Learning Contentment in Plenty and in Need
Paul knew what it was like to have enough and what it was like to go hungry. When he says, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” he is describing the strength Christ gave him to remain faithful in both. That same dependence on Christ frees us to look for work, ask for help, or pray for relief while entrusting the outcome to the Lord.
In 1 Timothy 6:6–10, Paul connects godliness with contentment and warns about the love of money. Hebrews 13:5 grounds contentment in God’s promise to never leave or forsake his people. In Christ we have forgiveness, peace with God, and an eternal inheritance that changing circumstances cannot take away.
Five Ways to Grow in Biblical Contentment
- Give thanks. Name specific gifts God has already given you.
- Turn away from comparison. Receive what God has given you with gratitude when you see what others have.
- Pray honestly. Bring your desires to the Lord and submit them to his wisdom.
- Remember God’s providence. The circumstances you face today are under his sovereign care.
- Look to Christ. Remember what you have in him and depend on him for the strength to be faithful today.
Dear Christian, bring your unmet needs to the Lord. Whatever you are still waiting for, remember what you already have in Christ. You belong to him, and he will never leave you.
For more episodes, visit the Contending for the Word Q&A page or watch the YouTube playlist.
