Philippians 4:10-19 The discipline of Christian contentment

Text:  Philippians 4:10-19 (opens in new window)

This section of Philippians deals with the concept of Christian contentment.  But this section should not be considered in isolation from its chapter.  Contentment is not possible without rejoicing in the Lord.

Three key factors are required for Christian contentment.  Each is intertwined with the others, and cannot really be had without the others.

First, gratitude, or thankfulness to others.  Primarily, we should be thankful to God Himself.  We have much to be thankful to Him for both in our current physical condition, and in the vast spiritual blessings He has given us.  Secondarily, we should have gratitude towards other people.  We are needy.  Each of us is not an island; we need others.  We must be willing to give to others and have the humility to recognize our own needs and make them known so that we may receive from others.  Paul, clearly, was thankful for the Philippians and how they shared with him (v. 15 and 16).

Second, we must be able to content ourselves with our current circumstances.  Are we worrying and doubtful?  Is our level of contentment based on our circumstances?  Contentment requires self-discipline.  We are responsible for our own state of mind and can control it by what we think upon.  We must rise above comparing our situation with what others have, and rest in the knowledge that God gives us what is good for us.

Paul says in verse 12 that “I have learned the secret” of contentment.  Contentment is a discipline that may be learned, that may be reached in greater degrees.  It is something we all are working on.

The Puritan Jeremiah Burroughs, in his book, “The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment” outlined a number of items for consideration in pursuing the discipline of Christian contentment:

1. Subtraction – Subtract our desires (the “I want this”) from what God has given us.
2. Addition – Consider our sin.  Is God teaching us something through the difficulty we are in?
3. Change the evil of our circumstances into good – Afflictions create growth.  Change the “bad times” into “good times” – times of being closer to our Savior.
4. Always do what is required of you – Continue doing what we know we should do: having devotional times, praying, etc.  This requires discipline.
5. Make God’s will your own will – Not a begrudging acceptance of what God has for you, but a joyful embracing of it.
6. Purge out the root of bitterness – Eliminate contentions that cause jealousy, envy, and discontent

Finally, look to Christ for contentment.  Paul said “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me”.  We can say the same.  God has enabled us to do all that He has called us to do.  He has given us the strength to triumph in whatever circumstances we are in!  As a final encouragement, remember that “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:5)