28-Nov-14

What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar. The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble. Proverbs 19:22-23One state of mind and heart most desired is contentment.  It is not found in the world or things of the world.  Contentment is found in a life lived in the fear of the Lord.Trouble is the antithesis of Contentment. A troubled spirit does not know the Lord, or find true rest or exercise the trust muscle that comes through faith in the Lord.Apostle Paul.  Did he feel contentment when he persecuted Christians?  Did he feel contentment when he was the Pharisee who was able to debate learned scholars?  Did he feel contentment when he conquered philosophy?  No, it is when the bright light shone and blinded him, that he began a journey of wonder and contentment.  Shipwrecks, imprisonment, beatings, hunger, living in want taught him contentment through Jesus Christ.When I endured three days without power during an ice storm, care-giving my husband of 62 years, the death of a beloved son, I think of Apostle Paul.  I, too, draw power and contentment through Jesus Christ.  The contentment comes from knowing this life is not all there is.  The best is yet to come.  The Holy Spirit gives me Hope and Peace through many others in my life.  And I know I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.Dear Lord, Help me keep my eyes on my Savior, Jesus Christ.  Comfort is fleeting, but contentment is enduring when I walk with the Lord.  I pray continually for my family and the spiritual family you have given me to walk through this life.  Keep me strong, help me to ever trust you.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.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