If you're anything like me, Christmas has been a whirlwind of visits, familiar faces, new faces, presents, food - lots of food, and busyness. It is one of my favorite times of year, and this year was no exception. Yet, even in the midst of all the activity, I am seeking the Holy Spirit for the coming year. We all know that January arrives with a thud. Back to work and school. No excitement, just the routine and mundane. The realization that we spent more than we intended. Cold weather. Things just sort of w-i-n-d d-o-w-n. Last December, I heard very clearly from the Lord about some specific things to focus on in 2014, and for the most part, I maintained that focus. I read an inspiring devotional called "Jesus Calling," I journaled, I read more, and I went through a significant transition moving from Virginia to Tennessee and leaving a job I truly loved. As I reflect and re-read my journal, I am struck to the core with the faithfulness of God, the presence of the Holy Spirit and the fruit of obedience.
So here I am, at the cusp of 2015, and this is what the Lord is speaking to me. Perhaps He is speaking this to you as well. Contentment. Being satisfied, even happy. Instead of living in a state of want, relaxing in a state of exhale. Trading striving for resting. Laying down my rights and entitlement and taking up the nature of a servant. I believe 2015 will be a year of "learning to be content, whatever the circumstances." (Phil 4:11). Paul said he had "learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (v. 12). That word "learn" implies there is work to be done - not in the physical, but in the heart and mind. In verse 13, Paul reveals the secret: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (v. 13). I have quoted verse 13 many times, but really unpacking this by going backwards reminds me that Paul is not boasting; he's making a statement based on his life of humble obedience. He's had plenty, and he's been in need. He reminds us that he has known both sides of the material coin, and BECAUSE of who Christ is, and Paul's desire for Christ above all, he is able to be content in any situation. Perhaps if we said "because of Him who gives me strength, I can do all things," we would see the emphasis is on Christ first, and us second.
I want to learn to be content with the content of my life. Read that again and ponder the depth of that statement. The world continues to become saturated with material things that money can buy, and consumerism invades every aspect of our lives. We own more and are less satisfied, because there is always more to have. I know for me, I must fix my eyes on Jesus, renew my mind and cultivate a thankful heart. Truly, there is nothing I "need" - I have a husband who loves and provides for me, children who love God, a home and plenty to eat.
So I begin now by saying thank you Lord, may I be content with the content of my life.
