Devotionals for November 10, 2023
See you on Sunday! Our week two or Next Year Now sermon series continues this Sunday at 9:00am & 11:00am!
READ
PHILIPPIANS 4:10-13
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last, you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 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 want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last, you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 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 want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
REFLECT
Paul was no stranger to the rollercoaster of life. He went through seasons of complete poverty to times of comfort. He worked hard to raise funds for his ministry and relied on the generosity of others. Overall, Paul had to rely on the goodness of God because he couldn’t provide security on his strength. He couldn’t rely on the ‘life hacks’ or ‘secrets’ of others to be successful. Rather, he found the true secret of being content no matter the circumstances: the strength of Jesus.
APPLY
Q: What kind of contentment is Paul talking about? How does it contrast with the way our world views success?
Q: How can you rely on God today for your contentment in all circumstances?
Q: Who can you support, pray for, or encourage to run the race like Paul?
Q: How can you rely on God today for your contentment in all circumstances?
Q: Who can you support, pray for, or encourage to run the race like Paul?
SING
PRAY
"And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one."
Lord, it is so tempting not to be content. It’s easy to worry about my comfort and status. Help me to walk wisely and in love. Lord, help me to live in true contentment by serving your Son, Jesus, and those around me. Amen.
Lord, it is so tempting not to be content. It’s easy to worry about my comfort and status. Help me to walk wisely and in love. Lord, help me to live in true contentment by serving your Son, Jesus, and those around me. Amen.