Learning to Be Content

 

Learning Contentment

In Philippians 4:11, Paul says - I have learned to be content

The problem: contentment isn’t automatic. We’re all inclined to be discontent. It’s built in to our flesh.

Contentment flows out of the pursuit of sanctification as Paul introduced in Philippians 1:27 – live your lives in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

Chapter 2:12-18 outlines how we are to pursue sanctification:

1. Obedience is the starting point

Verse 12 – just as you have always obeyed

Disobedience to any of God’s commands is outside of His will. 

2. It will take effort

Verse 12 – work out your salvation

It’s going to take effort. It won’t just happen on its own.

3. A Right attitude toward God

Verse 12 – with fear and trembling

A healthy reverential awe. You take God and His commands seriously

4. Without Grumbling & Complaining

Verse 14 – Do all things without grumbling or disputing

A clear sign of discontent

Matthew 12:34 – the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.

Holding fast is also holding forth

5. Sharing this with others

Verses 15-16 – …shine as lights in the world,  holding fast the word of life…

Holding fast is holding forth

6. Rejoice 

This comes from within - from the heart.

The Secret of Contentment

Learning Contentment is a Discipline 

that we must all pursue with great intensity.

FOCUS on these Things:

• The Spiritual, 

Rather than Immersing yourself in worldly pursuits - those will always lead to discontent 

on some level, in some way.

• Jesus

Hebrews 12:2-3 – fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary, fainting in heart.

See also: Phil 1:6, Phil 1:19

• Scripture - God’s Word must be our guide through life. The Instruction Manual

A Ship’s Ballast is internal, it’s not propped up from outside.

• The Positive (& God’s Sovereignty)

What’s happening to you is a result of the Sovereign, loving hand of God in your life.

It’s happening for His glory and your good.

When we carry our discontentment in a bucket and focus on it, we get frustrated.

When we see it in relation to the abundant ocean of God’s grace and mercy, it disappears.