Philippians 4:12-13 “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 all this through him who gives me strength.”
“God, when is it going to be my turn?”
How many times has that question come into your mind over the years? It can be really hard when the life you long for is constantly being overwhelmed by the life you have; as you are forced to deal with what is whilst dreaming about what could be and maybe, your think, what should be!
Perhaps you have known the pain of betrayal, loss, persecution or just can’t get your head above the water as the pressures of life overpower you. Perhaps your mind and your heart seem constantly restless? It doesn’t have to be that way. God does not want you to feel short-changed or overwhelmed by circumstances you never asked for and feel powerless to overcome. He wants you to rise above that and embrace the many blessings you have right now. He wants you to embrace what IS and not fret about what ISN’T.
The Apostle Paul knew what it was to live a life he never planned or asked for. Paul was educated as a Pharisee (a very learned Jewish leader of the time). He was well respected, even feared. Paul was also a Roman citizen with all the perks that came with that. He was a powerful man in the early days after Jesus’ crucifixion. (Acts 7:58, 8:3, 9:13-14)
With all that he had going for him, one encounter with Jesus on the Road to Damascus changed absolutely everything. He went from privilege to hardship. He embraced a completely different life and learned how to be content, no matter what. His peace came through the strength Christ gave him.
We all struggle with life’s circumstances. Very few of us have the life we imagined when we were young. But, like Paul, we can find our peace in knowing that God is in control and that His plan for us is perfect. We live like the circumstances in which we find ourselves is the only reality we have. God and His love for us is a far greater reality and the only one which should matter in the final analysis.
Read Paul’s words again, and ask God to give you that same faith and assurance:
Philippians 4:12-13 “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 all this through him who gives me strength.”