The Cure for Discontentment (Part Two)

Paul teaches, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am” (Philippians 4:11). Learning contentment means experiencing and recognizing God's active, purposeful guidance and care in all aspects of life, not as random chance, but as a demonstration of His sovereignty. It's a learned skill, not a feeling. Contentment isn't something you are born with; it's a skill that must be practiced and learned over time. It is a deliberate choice to be satisfied and at peace, rather than a feeling that happens to you. By choosing contentment, you can live with peace and joy, and it can take away the power of frustration from external circumstances. Paul learned contentment because his satisfaction came from his relationship with Jesus, not his situation of circumstances. How do we know? Paul said, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). What does this mean? To find our answer, we must understand the context from which it came. Philippians 4:10–20 (context) describes how believers can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill! This verse can, however, be taken out of context. Paul's comment is specifically referring to the ability of a Christian to endure under hardship and persecution. Despite well-meaning use of the words, this text does not teach that a Christian is empowered to accomplish any task simply because they are saved. Philippians 4:13 means that believers can face any circumstance with God's strength, not that they can accomplish any personal goal. The verse is about finding contentment and strength to persevere through trials, whether hardship or prosperity, by relying on Christ's power, not personal ability. Be encouraged!

Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor