Most of us, when we think about the challenge of contentment, tend to read Philippians 4:11-13 like this, with a focus on making it through the tough times:
I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
I know how to be brought low. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing hunger and need.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
But this leaves out half the equation. Here’s the flip side of Paul’s teaching highlighted instead:
I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and abundance.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
We need Christ’s strength not just when things are bad, but also—perhaps especially—when they seem so good.
We need Christ’s strength not only when the grass looks greener on the other side, but when the grass on our side looks greener than all of the neighbors’.
The better things are, the more potential for Christ to recede from our hearts and minds as the one from whom, to whom, and through him the good gifts exist.
The times of plentiful abundance are therefore times of great need and weakness.
Our circumstances in life change, but the need for Christ’s power and strength and help remains forever the same.
