Philippians 4:10-13
“Paul’s ‘everything’ is constrained by the context. His point is that whatever the circumstances in which he finds himself, whether with the rich and the powerful or with the poor and the powerless, whether preaching with unction to substantial crowds or incarcerated in a filthy prison, he has learned to cast himself on God and to be content. He can do all these things, everything that God assigns to him to do, through the one who gives him strength.” —Don Carson, Basics for Believer
Despite life’s changing circumstances, we can have lasting contentment because of Jesus Christ who strengthens us.
- Contentment is learned (v. 11, 12).
- Contentment is found outside of our circumstances (v. 10, 11, 12).
- Contentment is found in Christ alone (v. 13).
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 4:6-7
“Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped. And he said, ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.'”— Job 1:20-21