I recently wrote and article for the ERLC on how to remain content during this pandemic when so many things which comfort us have been taken away.
It’s been two months now that most, if not all of us, have been under some kind of stay-at-home order or quarantine due to COVID-19. Though many states are starting to slowly loosen some restrictions, our circumstances will probably not return to the ‘normal’ we once knew anytime soon.
Our lives have been turned upside down with the many changes that suddenly came upon our country. Whether it has to do with jobs changing or being lost, kids being home from school, not being able to meet together at church, or not being able to see friends or family, these changes have been hard. For some, this has probably been one of the hardest periods in their lives.
In the midst of the turmoil and hardship, I have been reminded of Paul’s words to the Philippians about remaining content amidst whatever situation:
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:11-13).
It is easy for me to be content when everything seems to be going my way, but when things get hard, contentment becomes hard too. In our flesh, it is far easier to notice what we don’t have than to be content with what we do have. This was no different for Paul, who was writing this letter from prison. He had endured much in his life since turning to Christ (See 2 Cor. 11:16-12:10). Yet, despite his circumstances, Paul tells the Philippians that he has learned the secret of being content regardless of his circumstances. What was this secret?
The answer lies in verse 13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Regardless of his situation, Paul knew that the one constant through it all was God and his character. God was the one Paul could take refuge in and receive strength from to get through the day, whatever it held.
So, how do we remain content during our own challenges today?
Read the rest here at the ERLC:
https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/3-ways-to-remain-content-during-our-time-at-home/