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, the school of contentment constantly beckons us. It’s always in session. Will we ever graduate? Thankfully, you’re not calling us to kill desire, demonize ambition, or embrace denial.
And yet, at the same time we “get” your warnings about complaining, ingratitude, and discontent. Left unchecked, these deadly attitudes infect hearts and homes, friendships and the workplace. None of us likes to be around whiny people, so why do we tolerate this spirit in ourselves?
We come to you on this February Monday, acknowledging a need you alone can meet. Please supersize the grace of contentment in our hearts. Whether we have a little or a lot, are well known or forgotten, feast on filet mignon or yesterday’s sardines, we want to be grateful.
Whether we feel included or left out, celebrated or underappreciated; have discretionary funds for splurging, or financial pressures out the wazoo, we want to maintain a sense of your love and providence.
Whether our relationships are “rocking” or rocky, whether we have great health or chronic discomfort, job security or vocational uncertainty. Father, we want to be content—not passive, but truly thankful; not immune to pain, but peaceful in Jesus.
By your Spirit, convict us when we default to murmuring and complaining. Father heal us of gospel amnesia—too easily forgetting every good thing we have in Christ. We want to carp less and “carpe diem” more—seizing the day for your glory by your grace. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ all-glorious and grace-full name.