Lord, help me to Learn
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
(Philippians 4:11-13 ESV ~ emphasis mine)
Last week I shared with my readers on my blog what a wonderful time I had with my family. Just being with them put me in state of contentment. Yes, it even made me happy and I was joyful. I thought: “Why can’t it be like this all the time?” Because of our to-do-lists, we forget often the blessings that are right in front of us.
We too often rush through life without savoring the moments God gives us with our family and friends. I know for me, I want to savor those moments. It is nice to just talk, laugh, and have fun.
I know that I have shared often with you that the book of Philippians is my all time favorite letters from Paul to the churches he planted. It only has 4 short chapters, but it is packed full of encouragement and edification of the whole church.
You have to understand that Paul was in prison at the time he wrote the letter. I often ask myself if I could write something so encouraging to the people I know, if I were imprisoned? Probable not. But then again, I have to remember what or better, Who gave Paul the joy he had in his heart. It was the knowledge that Christ gave him the strength to endure the prison.
He writes in Philippians 4:13:
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Amen to that! You see, family and friend time will give us joy, for a short period of time. But we soon go back to rushing through our days. We are looking at our to-do-lists and get discouraged and the joy fades. So, we have to learn to be content with all our circumstances and look to the One who can give us the strength we need for every day situation.
Lord of mercy and grace. I need your help learning to be content in whatever situation I am in. I also need your help to savor the moments that I have with my family and friends. Lord, You are my strength, my shelter. In the precious name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ I ask for Your strength. Amen.
Blessings my friend.