I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Phil. 4:11-12 (ESV)
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”Heb. 13:5 (ESV)
Do all things without grumbling. Phil. 2:14 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, I wish, as soon as you made us alive in Jesus, you’d awarded each of your children a Ph.D. in contentment. But, alas, I’m still learning the secret of this wonderful expression of your grace.
Of course, the gospel doesn’t call us to kill desire, demonize ambition, or embrace denial; and yet, at the same time, I totally “get” your warnings about complaining, ingratitude, and discontent. Left unchecked, these deadly toxins infect hearts and homes, friendships and the work place.
So, I come to you, Father, once again, acknowledging a need you alone can meet. Please supersize the grace of contentment in my heart. Whether I have a little or a lot; am well known or forgotten; feast on filet mignon or yesterday’s “beanie-weenies.”
Whether I feel included or left out; celebrated or underappreciated; have discretionary funds for splurging, or financial pressures out the wazoo. Whether my relationships are “rocking” or rocky; whether I have great health or chronic discomfort; job security or vocational uncertainty… Father, I want to be content—not passive, but truly grateful—not immune to pain, but peaceful in Jesus.
By your Spirit, convict me when I start defaulting to whining, murmuring, and complaining. Father, heal me of gospel amnesia—too easily forgetting every good thing we have in Christ. I want to carp less and carpe diem more—seizing the day for your glory, by your grace. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ all-glorious and grace-full name.