10 I could hardly contain my joy in the Lord when I realized
you have started to show your care for me once again. Since you have not had
the opportunity to show how much you cared until now, I want you to know how it touched me. 11 I am
not saying this because I am in need. I have learned to be content in whatever
circumstances. 12 I know how to survive in tight situations,
and I know how to enjoy having plenty. In fact, I have learned how to face any
circumstances: fed or hungry, with or without. 13 I can be
content in any and every situation through the Anointed One who is my power and
strength. 14 Nevertheless, it was admirable of you to
participate in my affliction.
True contentment is
the result of a heart committed to the risen Lord. Think of all the sins, pain,
and brokenness that come from coveting. Adultery, murder, stealing, and lying
can all be traced directly to a prior condition when hearts and minds are
frustrated and discontent.
Notice what Paul says
doesn’t come naturally; it is learned. The normal, natural state of humanity is
discontent and quiet desperation. It takes a powerful, spiritual presence to
transform anxiety into joyous satisfaction. Ironically, it may be the shackles
more than his freedom that schools Paul in the art of contentment. Despite the
chains, Paul discovers this beautiful state of inner peace through the power of
Jesus residing in him.
15 You remember, Philippians, at the beginning of my gospel
journey after I left Macedonia, no church offered me the financial assistance I
needed to do the Lord’s work, except you alone. 16 Even when I
took the message to Thessalonica, you sent provisions to me. Twice even! 17 Not
that I am looking for a gift—I am just looking toward your reward that comes
from your gift. 18 With what Epaphroditus delivered to me from
your generous pockets, I have even been blessed in excess. I am fully
satisfied. I know God is pleased with your dedication and accepts this gift as
a fragrant offering, a holy sacrifice, on His behalf. 19 Know this: my God will also fill
every need you have according to His glorious riches in Jesus the Anointed, our Liberating King. 20 So
may our God and Father be glorified forever and ever. Amen.
21 Greet every saint there in Jesus the Anointed One, for my
brothers and sisters and I send our greetings to you. 22 All of
the saints, especially those serving in Caesar’s household, also send
salutations to you. 23 May you all continue the journey with your spirits
strengthened by the grace of the Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. Amen. (Philippians 4:10-23, VOICE)
How to be a thermostat (and not a thermometer):
1. Be a
joyful thermostat of contentment by knowing who provides and cares for you. (See
Philippians 4:10-13 above)
2. Be a
joyful thermostat of contentment by knowing that your church cares for you. (See
Philippians 4:14-18 above)
3. Be a
joyful thermostat of contentment by knowing that God will provide for others. (See
Philippians 4:19-20 above)
4. Be a
joyful thermostat of contentment by knowing that contentment provides grace
towards yourself and others. (See Philippians 4:21-23 above)
Important contentment questions to ask of yourself:
·
Do I need it?
·
Is it God’s will to have it?
The only two biblical reasons to leave a church:
·
Moral failure with the church leadership.
·
Non-biblical sermons (or teachings).
“Do for other people the same things you want them
to do for you. This is the meaning of the Law of Moses and the teaching of the
prophets.” (Matthew 7:12, ICB) When you follow the Golden Rule
(above), it prevents discontentment by taking the focus off you towards the
needs of others.“Contentment makes poor men rich. Discontent makes rich men poor.” (Benjamin Franklin)[i]
[i] Inspired by the sermon “Joy in Contentment: Unchained
Joy” (installment seven, final) Sunday June 28, 2020, Pastor Jon Fulton,
CenterPoint Church Westerville (All CenterPoint churches are closed due to the
Coronavirus, and are meeting online at 10am at the CenterPoint Church Main Page
on Facebook.)
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