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The Secret of ContentmentPhilippians 4:10-19

Philippians 4:10-1310 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been 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. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

A Contented Person is…

I. Confident of God’s Provision (v.10)I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.

Paul knew God would Providefor him. There was no reason to panic.

II. Satisfied with Little (v.11)11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

• Paul was a prisoner in Rome• Chained 24/7 to a guard• surviving on a sparse diet• Yet he was still content with what Little God had given him!How Much Is Enough?

III. Independent from 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.

Paul’s Sufferings: 2 Cor. 11:24-28• 5 times he received 39 lashes• 3 times beaten w/ rods• 1 time he was stoned, left for dead

• 3 times he was shipwrecked • spent a night in the sea • Had been in danger countless times• Hungry, cold, w/o clothing, etc.

IV. Strengthened by God’s Power (v.13)13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

• Paul was able to withstand numerous trials and still be content because the Lord had given him strength!

God’s strength is available to you too!

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.30

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:29-31

V. Preoccupied with the Needs of Others (v.14-19)

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Only those who put others needs 1st

will find contentment

Count Your Blessings: Psalm 23