Lesson 247: The Secret of Being Content
Army of Tennessee Chaplain David Chaltas
The Secret of Being Content 1
Timothy 6:6-“Godliness with contentment is great gain!" August
17, 1776 My
dear friend, It
befits every Christian to say--It is not necessary for me to be rich--or
what the world accounts wise. It is not necessary for me to be healthy--or
admired by my fellow-worms. It is not necessary for me to pass through
life in a state of prosperity and outward comfort. These things may
be, or they may not be--as the Lord in His wisdom shall appoint them
for me. Quote of
the Week YOU
SAY GOD
SAYS BIBLE
VERSES You
say: 'It's impossible' God
says: All things are possible (Luke
18:27) You
say: 'I'm too tired' God
says: I will give you rest (Matthew
11:28-30) You
say: 'Nobody really loves me' God
says: I love you (John
3:16 & John 3:34 ) You
say: 'I can't go on' God
says: My grace is sufficient (II
Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15) You
say: 'I can't figure things out' God
says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs
3:5-6) You
say: 'I can't do it' God
says: You can do all things (
Philippians 4:13) You
say: 'I'm not able' God
says: I am able (II
Corinthians 9:8) You
say: 'It's not worth it' God
says: It will be worth it (Roman
8:28 ) You
say: 'I can't forgive myself' God
says: I Forgive you (I
John 1:9 & Romans 8:1) You
say: 'I can't manage' God
says: I will supply all your needs (
Philippians 4:19) You
say: 'I'm afraid' God
says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II
Timothy 1:7) You
say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated' God
says: Cast all your cares on ME (I
Peter 5:7) You
say: 'I'm not smart enough' God
says: I give you wisdom (I
Corinthians 1:30) You
say: 'I feel all alone' God
says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews
13:5) “Regard
your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest
valleys. Look on them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even
unto death!" Sun Tzu, The Art of War
But it is necessary for me to be humble and spiritual, to
seek communion with God, to adorn my profession of the Gospel, and to yield
submissively to His disposal, in whatever way, whether of service or
suffering--that He shall be pleased to call me to glorify Him in this world. It
is not necessary for me to live long--but highly expedient that while I
do live--I should live unto Him! Here then, I would bound my desires; and
here, having His Word for my rule, I am secured from asking amiss. Let me have
His presence, wisdom to know my calling, and opportunities and faithfulness to
improve them; and as to the rest, Lord, help me to sincerely pray,
Whatever You will,
whenever You will, and
however You will.
"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know
what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the
secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or
hungry, whether living in plenty or in want!" Philippians 4:11-12 (Letters of John Newton)