Sermonette: Contentment in Christ

How many times in the last week would you say you were completely content? I know my answer isn’t what I’d like it to be.

These past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind for me. Having graduated in December, I recently accepted a job out of state, and am two days away from moving (as I’m writing this). All the goodbyes, packing, working out the details, financial planning, etc., have made it easy to get pretty stressed out.

This is because I’m not someone who does well with change. It usually takes a while to get adjusted and settled into the routines that make me feel comfortable. The pressure of meeting people, doing well in my job, and understanding a different part of the country – it’s a lot.

Yet, the other day I started to think, “How much more difficult would this be if I didn’t have God with me?”

Since having Jesus in my life, I’ve had such a shift in my perspective (though I continually need reminders of this). Some particular areas I have a new view of, are contentment and comfort.

Paul writes, in Philippians 4:10-13, about contentment in all circumstances.

“I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now, at length, you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for 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. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (emphasis mine)

It’s important to look at the often quoted “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” in its context. What Paul has learned is that he can be content and trust God with whatever life throws at him. With Christ in his life, he doesn’t need to let stress and worry drive his actions. And let me tell you – the God of the Bible is one we can fully trust. I could go on and on about the character of God, but to name just a few of His qualities; He is infinite, never changing, holy, all-knowing, wise, just, merciful, and a lot more.

I am not saying that our feelings and emotions are invalid. God created us with the ability to feel things and be affected by them. But, as Christians, we are able to have an overarching mindset of contentment, not affected by emotions or outward circumstances; a mindset based on God’s faithfulness and presence with the believer.

Acts 2:38 is one of many places in the Bible we are reminded that God is present with the believer. Peter phrases it in this passage as receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Knowing that God’s presence is with me wherever I go, gives me peace, comfort and contentment in this season of uncertainty.

I know many, if not all of those reading this, are facing uncertainties too. My challenge to you, is to reflect and read up on the character of God, and why He is to be our comfort and contentment. What might be keeping you from contentment in Christ?