December 01, 2019
Greetings and blessings to all of you. Gratitude Day has come and gone. Christmas is coming soon. But are we to forget about being Grateful. I say No. When you are grateful and thankful you will manifest contentment. The Apostle Paul was content and he wants us to learn to be content. Even in his time believers were struggling with comparison, covetousness and complaining. Saints, everything in life creates opportunities for contentment or discontentment. Human tendency is always to want more, better, or different. Are you living in a state of peace and contentment, or are you living in a state of worry, restlessness, and fear? Paul said, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” Paul also said, “For I 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. Now the last part of the verse is super important. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Did you know that your circumstances are already MORE than you can handle on your own? You and I were never meant to live apart from the sustaining help of God. Too often we say that we want the Lord’s Help, but our actions suggest that we are unwilling to relinquish control and let HIM take the lead. Paul did not allow his circumstances to dictate his behavior, shape his attitude, or control his mind. He wrote the above verse while he was in prison. He did not know whether he was going to live or die! His contentment developed in hardship and was the outcome of his OBEDIENCE. Paul did not complain, or blame or feel sorry for himself. No Way! Paul REJOICED IN THE LORD! Recall that Paul favorite verse was “for to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” The key to Paul’s contentment was his firm belief in the Lord’s goodness toward him, recognizing his authority over him, and absolute trust in His will for his life. So this coming new year begin learning to be content during difficult circumstances. God said, “Give thanks in all things” I Thess 5:18
With the Love of Christ
First Lady Vivian C. Currie
Pastor ALC