Philippians 4.10-23

Paul finishes the book of Philippians sharing the secret of contentment…trusting God in whatever the circumstance to provide what is needed. I think you could even shorten that to…trusting God. In every circumstance.

Joy. Peace. Contentment. All much-sought-after commodities in today’s world. And yet all things that are elusive to so many folks…even folks like us who have trusted in Jesus. Instead, anxiety, fear and greediness seem to rule the day. So how do we get to the good stuff? Paul says it’s something he learned. That would sure seem to indicate a process. Something we can grow in.

Two important ingredients to start off with are prayer and right thinking (which of course comes as a result of our time spent in the Word). Then when a trial comes, when stuff happens…it’s asking God for wisdom in the trial. Seeking Him in the suffering. But also praising and thanking Him in the good times. In any and every circumstance, recognizing our total dependence on Him. That’s not easy because we’re not conditioned for it. We are pretty self-sufficient as a species. But that’s where our time in the Word…thinking excellently…saturating our mind with the good stuff…comes in. Reminding ourselves on purpose when God provides, “Hey, this comes from God!” When a need arises, making prayer our first (and hopefully only) response instead of worry. Keep a journal of what God’s done so you can remind yourself over and over and over again.

And as our trust level rises, we will see our joy, peace and contentment rise as well. The God of peace will guard our minds…in Christ Jesus.

The gospel and unity. Investing our minas together. Running down Torah Road together. Crashing the gates of hell together. Let’s do this together.

pro rege

This post is based on a sermon from our Philippians series. Download the podcast at: Central Christian Church Main Service, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or Twitter: @ccclancaster. You can also download our Central Christian app in the iTunes App Store.