Joy: Week 2 - Day 1
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Lord, humbly we come before you today to seek your wisdom and guidance. When the world feels disordered, we know that your plan is perfect. When we feel unloved, we know that you your love for us is perfect.
10 “I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”
REFLECT:
Paul is in prison and the church of Philippi has sent some gifts to him. Ever the teacher, he doesn’t just write them back to say thank you—he writes the best thank you note ever. His letter is full of practical advice for having a God edifying mindset while living in community.
Paul is rejoicing in the Lord for their gifts, but it’s not in the way that they think. The church believes that they can meet his needs. Paul has learned – and wants them to experience this too – that only God can fill our needs. Not contentment, as we sometimes think of complacency or laziness. But contentment that allows space for joy and exuberance for life.
An internet search wants me to believe that contentment is a “milder form of happiness.” Webster’s defines it as a state of “peaceful happiness” and “satisfaction.” I think Paul would say that his contentment is being joyful where he is and with what he has because he knows God has placed him there and is with him.
APPLY:
In need and in plenty, we will always experience discontentment if we don’t acknowledge Jesus as Lord. Today, pay attention to where you are not content. For me, discontentment feels like an irritation and in those moments my words are always unkind. What does discontentment look like for you? Do you enjoy what you do have? Do you rejoice in the prosperity of others?
CLOSING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, we confess that “joy” and “giving” are not always in same sentiment for us. Allow your Word to break through our stubborn spirits and lead us in understanding of what it means to have joy in all things because of you. Amen.