Like Paul, over the years of nestling under the shadow of God's wings, I
have learned to be content with what God provides for me (Philippians 4:11; Psalm
91:4).
I also learned that I am complete in Christ who dwells in me, and that I
can do anything in and through Him, because of His abiding strength. Holiness
and contentment is what life is really all about (1 Timothy 6:6-7).
The opposite of satisfaction is discontentment and apathy (Amos 6:1).
Discontentment causes stress and anxiety, as well as contention between us and
our neighbors, family, coworkers and friends.
Striving to move up the ladder or to acquire more possessions often
brings ill health to our body and our soul - our thoughts, emotions and
choices. Instead, we want to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18).
The only striving, that the Bible suggests that we partake in, is to
“strive to enter through the narrow gate” (Luke 13:24), to “always strive to
have a conscience without offense toward God and men” (Acts 24:16), and to
“strive together in prayers to God” (Rom 15:30).
There is no need for any other striving in our life. As we trust in Him,
God gives us all good things to enjoy. Once we come into the presence of the
Lord. We cease from our labors and enter into the true Sabbath rest of God (Hebrews
4:10).
I have experienced that God's supply is usually much better than what I
was hoping for; and, in addition, it has eternal value (Philippians 4:19). We
cannot even imagine what God has already prepared for His Saints (1 Corinthians
2:9).
Prayer:
Father God, we come daily to sit contentedly at Your feet. We are ready
to receive whatever You think is best for us. Not our will, but Your will be
done in our life (Luke 22:42). You promised to give us our daily bread, and all
that we need to survive in this natural world (Matthew 6:11-13).
You clothed the lilies of the field and the birds of the air, and we are
more important to You than they are (Matthew 6:26-34). We thank You for
providing for us just as richly. We want to use Your wisdom and grace to serve
You in this life and to relish eternity in Your service as well.
Thought for the Day:
God gives us all good things to enjoy; no one has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, no soul
has ever perceived what our Father God has already arranged for those who love
him.
- 1 Corinthians 2:9
