Finding Contentment in the Midst of Everyday Life
These words are for the woman who lacks contentment. The woman who believes that life is passing her by. The woman who feels that she’s stuck and, for whatever reason, is unable to move forward.
If you are feeling thoughts such as these, please know you are not alone. Many of us in life question our progress, our journey, and our life. We wonder how we got to where we are or ask how we move forward?
If I were speaking with you, I would ask you to share the deepest desires of your heart with me. I’d ask you to close your eyes and describe your dream life. Then, I would ask how your life would be different if you achieved this dream life. Most importantly, I would like to know if you believe you would be content with this vision of your dream life.
And then, I would encourage you to take a moment, pause, and look up to God. You see, Paul tells us in Philippians 4:12 that our contentment can only come from Christ, not our achievements or material things but from Christ.
“I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need.” Philippians 4:12 AMP
Finding Strength
As you read the words from Paul, what thoughts come to mind? Do you truly know how to live with contentment in difficult times? Are you filled with peace in the midst of everyday difficulties, or do you lose hope and allow your circumstances to stall your journey? Verse 13 tells us,
“I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]” Philippians 4:13 AMP
Looking up allows us to set our eyes upon Jesus and remain focused on Him and not our circumstances. Keeping our eyes on Christ empowers us to fulfill His purpose. Our strength does not come from our own sufficiency but is provided to us through our trust in Christ.
Where are you gleaning your strength? What thoughts are keeping you stuck? Will you take a moment and empty out these thoughts and feelings? Take a piece of paper or your journal and write out the thoughts that are keeping you stuck. Nothing is too small to give to God and when you are done emptying out, surrender every thought to God. Take a moment to be present and allow God’s peace to fill your heart and mind.
Establishing Peace
These steps may seem simple, but it’s the simple things that give us the most significant relief from the pressures of life. When we keep our thoughts centered on Christ, we infuse our minds with peace and override the jaded worries of this world that keep us stuck. Isaiah 26:3 AMP tells us, “You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].”
Are you placing your hope in God and fully trusting Him in this season? Are you fully trusting in His vision, or are you trusting in your vision for your life?
I’m not dismissing the dream in your heart. We all have dreams and visions. But it’s essential as we plan and dream that we take into consideration the opportunities before us. You know the saying, bloom where you are planted. These words remind us to be content in all circumstances and enjoy our current season, however challenging it may be. God may be pruning us, or He may have planted us so that we can sprout and grow. Whatever the season, we are encouraged to be content and trust in Him.
Developing Self-control
Let’s be honest. This season may be an incredibly challenging season for you. The conditions of the world have brought unpredicted situations to each of us. How are you handling the current situation? Are you keeping your eyes on God, or are you groaning in misery to anyone that will listen? Are you allowing your fears to keep you stuck in place?
No judgment. I have those days when I feel that life is passing me by, or I think that I’ve missed an opportunity, or maybe I’m not following God’s will. When these thoughts start to swirl in my over-imaginative mind, they can trigger my fears, and my strength begins to waver. In a panic, I try to control my circumstances and depend upon my own strength, which means I no longer rely on God. There’s only one way to describe the outcome when I am running in my own strength, disaster in the making, and it’s not pretty.
You would think I’d learn from past experiences, but nope I can whip up a disaster like most women whip up a batch of brownies. In my younger years, I could have added this to my resume under skills and abilities. How well would that have gone? You see, if we allow our circumstances to control us (or other people), we will continue to remain stuck or in a cycle of hopelessness. All we see is what is directly in front of us, and when we rely upon our own power, we exhaust ourselves to the point of defeat. Or we choose to cry out to God to save us from our self-defeating behaviors. Which scenario describes you? I’ve experienced both, perhaps as recently as last month (grimace).
Finding Hope
The good news is that we have a choice. You have a choice. We can remain steadfast on God and place our full trust in Him, or we can believe every impure thought and listen to every mixed message thrown at us and remain stuck right where we are. For me, once I take my eyes off my circumstances and refocus my eyes upon God, the worries fade, and peace overcomes me. And the peace that comes from God surpasses all fear.
Remember, when we lose sight of God, it’s because we have taken our eyes off of Him. He never takes His eyes off of us. You are never alone.
Paul knew the secret to contentment – Jesus Christ.
“And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” Philippians 4:19-20 AMP
God will liberally supply your need. Not just a little, but He will abundantly supply your need according to His will. Are these words encouraging to you? They inspire me, and I would like to encourage you to focus on the beauty of life this holiday and offer thanks to God for continually providing for your needs. Let’s overflow with an abundance of hope!
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises.” Romans 15:13 AMP
My Prayer for You
I pray you will accept the love and grace God is offering to you at this very moment. My friend, if you are struggling and feel a sense of hopelessness, I’d like to pray for you and with you. If you would prefer to pray in private, take time to reflect upon what or who you are placing your trust in. Be honest with yourself and list anyone or anything that you depend upon. Then, reread the passages from Philippians. Will you take one small step today and place your full trust in Christ? Will you accept Him as your savior?
My friend, you are not alone. Salvation is available to any person who is ready to serve and trust God. Are you serving God today? If you believe God’s Word and His truth are the way to salvation and you are ready to make the decision to follow Him, I encourage you to pray this simple prayer and ask God to enter your heart.
Dear Lord,
I admit that I am a sinner. I have done many things that are not pleasing to you. I have lived my life for myself only. I am sorry, and I repent. I ask you to forgive me.
I believe that you died on the cross for me, to save me. From this day forward, help me to live every day for you and in a way that is obedient to you.
I love you, Lord, and I thank you that I will spend all eternity with you.
Amen
Keep on shining!
