The challenge to be Content!
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
Contentment seems to be an emotion that can be hard to control. It is challenging to be consistently at peace in a changing environment of physical, emotional and spiritual needs. But the Lord never leaves us and encourages us from His Word that we can trust Him to help us through each new challenge.
I love this Bible verse; it has been so helpful to me throughout the years. Keeping my focus on what is God’s idea of contentment is the key. Control of each situation is our downfall and my biggest trust issue. We do not like to feel vulnerable; I do not like feeling vulnerable. Right now, I am more vulnerable than I have ever been. It is not pleasant, and it is hard to be content. My body fails me, shames me and destroys my contentment. I know my lack of trust and desire for control is not in line with the Bible verse I want to follow. Recently, at my most vulnerable moment, I was so blessed to have my wonderful husband help me physically and emotionally. His love and care made me cry, then thank God for giving me the best husband in the world. I mentioned to Tim that I was writing about contentment and how hard it was to put it into practice. He complimented me, encouraged me, and turned my embarrassing situation into a time for me to stop whining and thank God for my blessings.
When we demand control of our lives, we are removing God from His supreme place of authority. This will not bring us contentment or peace. Pride is our problem. We always think we know what is best, and we do not trust our Creator.
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Romans 8:31-32
This health crisis has taught me many things and revealed some spiritual weakness that I need to rebuild, But the most important truth is that I must trust God in every area of my life. Trusting God is the only way to find Contentment. Are you trusting God?
Wendy
Thank you Sister Jackson. True words, written with a spirit of humility. Contentment isn’t natural for any of us. May the Lord bless you during this difficult time.
Wendy, you are such an inspiration!!! Your posts are full of wisdom, grace, and strength. I pray for you and your family daily. I’m so thankful for the years we got to know & serve in your church. I miss you all so much.
I try to trust God everyday, but sometimes I lack in that. Something pulls me back when a problem or crisis I face. I pray for help daily.
Wendy,
Even though I no longer attend Community I still pray for you and Pastor Tim more than you know. I learned to love you both while going there. I pray he will continue to keep you both happy and with us for quite a while. I will continue to pray and I thank the Lord your emails are still coming to me.