Your Happy Place

“. . . For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11).

Paul had some pretty tough life trials to deal with after he surrendered to the lordship of Christ: beatings, shipwreck, stoning, and imprisonment, yet, he learned the secret of being content (satisfied, happy, comfortable). How? He didn’t say but revealed that he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him (v. 13). The apostle learned that God’s providence was always for the best and that anxiety, self-pity, and impatience didn’t resolve any problems. No matter his circumstances, Paul believed that God’s ways were always right, and contentment flooded his soul. We can experience the same peace of mind and blessed satisfaction knowing that divine Providence is in God’s hands. Life is a learning process of the goodness and love of God, and Christ will strengthen us “to do all things” just as He did Paul if we trust Him and let Him have His way with us.