Content - Philippians 4:11

     "... for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content..."     

  Paul makes this comment toward the end of his letter to the Christians at Philippi. He is writing about the joy that comes from being in Christ and exhorts those reading his letter to act in harmony with one another. He also commends them on their generosity on behalf of other Christians (which, it would be my contention, is an element in joy and being content). 

  To be honest, 'content' really doesn't describe me very well. But how is 
content defined? For me this has to begin with an 'operational' definition (a definition that can show the word in action). Paul provides this when he uses himself as an example of learning to be content in whatever state he is in: "... to be abased and to abound... to be full and to be hungry..." And while these may be considered the extremes, it can also give us the understanding of the breadth involved and that we can thrive, not just endure, in these situations.

 However, don't mistake not being content with dissatisfaction or unhappiness. Yes, they can be mutually interconnected but not being content is not necessarily a discouragement unless you allow it to be. And, as you can see... Paul had the same issue, but he overcame it. He 'learned'... and that became my clue. Content can be learned. You are the determiner of being in order to act content. Continuing in verse 12, "I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need." Complaining is not an attribute of 'content'. Content can be the impetus to a higher calling.

  Paul 'learned' contentment but he also believed, I think because of his experience, that:
     "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always 
      having all sufficiency in all things may have an abundance for every good
      work." 2 Corinthians 9:8
'All' covers everything. I think what content does is to put your focus in the proper place. Rather than looking only at the situation you are in, whether 'good' or 'difficult', you place it on the One who has the answer and plan for you... right where you are.

  I think 'content' has become a goal for me, something to be attained but not completed yet. It's a project to be worked on. I've also come to the conclusion that it isn't something to strive after, but to work on. Paul sums up his condition and this discourse with one of the most oft quoted verses:
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (v. 13)

... are you content?