7 November 2020

I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
From Philippians 4: 10-19, NRSV

As we come to the end of this letter to the Philippians we hear Paul’s final greetings and blessing to a community of which he is clearly very fond and who have been looking after him well. Whilst he is grateful for what they have given him, he also wants them to know that he is not dependent on this since all his strength comes from God. Through the joys and trials of his life as a follower of Christ, Paul has learned that true contentment is about wanting only what he has (whether that is having little or having plenty) and finding God in all the circumstances of his life.

• • How did Paul find contentment in his life?
  • What do you need to feel contented?

Pray for those who see acquisition of things as the route to contentment. Pray also for those who have very little and for a more just sharing of our earth’s resources.