Content in Christ, Pt. 2

In order to be content in all circumstances, we must stress the importance of our mindset, what we choose to focus our mental energy on.

Content in Christ, Pt. 2

"The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you."

(Philippians 4:9)

Contentment begins with meditations and obedience (Philippians 4:8-9).

In order to be content in all circumstances, we must stress the importance of our mindset, what we choose to focus our mental energy on. It is a battle for the mind, in the mind, and with the mind, for sure. You know you are losing that battle when you are restless with what you have, wanting more, and angry about those who have more. A much better way to live is to be grateful for all that you have. Ask God for more if it is His will, and ask Him to empower you to be a good steward of what He gives you. Contentment severs the nerve of greed and envy.

"What we think matters, and it matters more than we think. We need God's Word to saturate our minds so that we may be renewed and kept from offensive ways. In addition to this, Paul highlights the need to think on admirable things. Think about what's true, not false. Think about what's honorable, not dishonorable. Think about what's just, not unjust. Think about what's pure, not impure. Think about what's lovely, not repulsive. Think about what's commendable, not wrong. Think about what's morally excellent, not filthy. Think about what's admirable, not shameful. . . . We are to dwell, think, ponder, consider carefully, and reflect on virtuous things in this life."

(Tony Merida & Francis Chan (2016). Exalting Jesus in Philippians (D. Platt, D. L. Akin, & T. Merida, Eds.; pp. 181–182). Holman Reference.)

In verse 9, Paul instructed the Philippian Christians as well as us today to do what Paul did (prasso, to practice and to be busy with). What an amazing thing to be able to say; whatever you "learned and received and heard and saw in me," do that! In 1 Corinthians 11:1, he tells the church at Corinth the same thing, to imitate his behavior. Paul gave them a living example to follow. Do as I say and do what I do: follow my example of living out the Christian life. Notice the promise: if we meditate on the good and imitate righteous behavior, then we will have the blessed spiritual commodity of peace.

I will close today's devotion with another insightful quote from Pastors Tony Merida and Francis Chan:

"He removes our greatest fear and relieves our deepest anxiety through His victorious death and resurrection. He paid the penalty for those who sinned with their thoughts, and He grants them a new mind in turn. Look to the Savior for your righteousness and for daily renewal, and go imitate Him. As you do, the peace of God will be with you."

(Ibid., 182-183)