The Secret of Contentment

"I havre learned the secret of being content." -Philippians 4:12

Learning to be content with what you have is a secret few discover in this life. The apostle Paul is a wonderful example of someone who knew the contentment of having much or little when he said in Philippians 4:12, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." The success of his ministry to the Gentiles wasn't dependent on his paycheck from tent-making; it was dependent on God. In today's language, Paul learned to be happy eating steak or eating macaroni and cheese for supper. Either way, he knew God was with him, providing exactly what he needed.

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Would you like to feel more content? Learn the art of appreciating life's simple pleasures. If you constantly struggle to obtain the biggest and best, you'll not only deplete your pocketbook, you'll dreprive yourself and  your family from enjoing ordinary, everyday blessings. Adding more outside activiites is not always the answer either. Spending time loving each other with the blessings God has already given is the joy you and your family will remember most.

-Taken from Homeschool Mom's Bible; devotions by Janet Tatman; p. 440

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