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 4:12-13
Do you know what the definition of being contented is? Yes, I know what it means, but I thought I'd look it up just the same...
satisfied with what one is or has; not wanting more or anything else.
I have a confession to make. I struggle with being content. There are times that I think I have it licked, only to have it rear it's ugly head and become an unitchable itch. You know, one of those deep-down-can't-get-to type of itches? Yeah, that's what being content is like for me at times. And this is one of those times.
The first big struggle with contentedness came when I was first married and living in a teeny apartment. I could not wait to move out and into a nicer place. Other aspects of my life were not what I had envisioned them to be and in my mind things would be better if we could just move to a better place. But in the Lord's wisdom and grace, we did not move. Instead, I had to learn that being content was a choice. It was not something that could be bought, or rented or moved. Rather, it was a conscience decision that I was going to have to accept where I was and be ok with it. It also came down to a matter of trust. Trust in the Lord and that He had me there for a reason and remember that his plans for me are for my good.
That was my first adulthood struggle with contentedness and choosing to be happy with where the Lord had me. I've had other bouts with it since, some easier to accept than others. And today I find myself in that well worn spot once again, struggling to accept where I am instead of where I'd like to be.
Just as before, I need to put my trust and focus in the Lord. From where I am now, I can see that the thing I want is just beyond my reach. It's almost there and I can just about put my fingertips on it, but I can't. And this is where I must make my choice....do I spend my strength and emotions on something I can't quite get? or, do I give it to the Lord and trust him with it? Trust Him to take care of it, which could mean it remains out of reach or even worse out of sight? Can I do that again, trust Him with my dreams and hopes? I believe I can. For just as Paul said in the above verse....I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
And once again I place myself in His capable hands, and along with my future and hopes, my heart.
6 comments:
That's a great but difficult lesson, one that I also have been in the midst of learning. Thank you!! I was encouraged by reading this post.
Thanks for the great post - this is a big issue for me, and one I'm definitely dealing with right now.
Such an appropriate reminder for me right now, Deanne. We're probably in the same situation... wishing for a home but living in a rental... ;)
I'm struggling with contentedness with our situation right now.. wanting something more for my children.. wanting them to have the childhood I had...
Sometimes is so hard to remember that God is the one who is in control of your life and that He withholds nothing from you that is within His will and your best interest.
When I was house shopping I wrestled with that temptation to get a house I knew would be the envy of my friends. We, thankfully, ended up with one that we're very confident has nothing to do with us, just God's plan. It's big, no doubt, but not very fancy inside and even needs some major work before two of the bathrooms are usable. I told God, in a sane moment, that I was ready to be blessed in a different way. I've had a fancy house and luxuries, now I'm excited to be blessed by blessing others. I'll be sharing what we're doing with the house soon on my blog. Thanks for sharing, I love your heart.
I think honestly this is a daily, no hourly struggle for me too. My life is no where near what I had envisioned when I was younger - not even close. There are days when I long for "my plan". the key for me is to always remember that His Plan is always so much better - even if we can't see that right now! Now if my heart and my head would get together and remember that daily...hourly!
Beautiful, lovely and wonderful.
And this is your heart I am talking about!
And this post, is honest and raw and challenging.
Love you, friend.
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