Contentment

Contentment

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

My daughter and I recently rode through the countryside and we snapped this photo of the horse seeking greener pastures. No doubt, he thought the long stretch outside the boundaries of his fence was worth it for an extra special breakfast. We chuckled that our life is often like that, too. No matter where we are or what we are doing, it sometimes looks more appealing to hop our own fence and live in another world. Of course, it is perfectly okay to hope and dream and make plans for positive change and growth, but somewhere in there needs to be a period of contentment about where we are at this moment. To always want more and never be happy with where we are is not the road God wants us to travel.  Sometimes God allows us to set our own pace. In the flurry of so much to do, if we sit with God each day and seek contentment in our life and circumstances, it will come.
But what about being thrust into situations that you have no control over, but yet must deal with. There are so many people that living with this by perhaps taking care of an ill spouse or aging parent that needs constant daily attention. There are broken families where a single parent is doing it all. Disappointments come that steal hope. Performing demanding physical tasks and responsibilities often depletes the energy that allows one to keep going. If that is you, know that you are not alone. God sees the situation you are in and sees your efforts. You are doing God’s work and you will be blessed for allowing God to use your hands and heart to tend to those that can’t tend to themselves. If you are a caregiver, ask God for what you need and trust Him to provide it.

It is said that it is not our circumstances that create our discontent or contentment. It is us. Perhaps if we change our reaction to situations when they arise, contentment is within our reach. All things are possible through Him.