Sermon Title: Be Content
Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13
Human identity is no longer defined by what one does but by what one owns. But we’ve discovered that owning and consuming things doesn’t satisfy our longing for meaning. We’ve learned that piling up material goods cannot fill the emptiness of lives which have no confidence or purpose.” “Crisis of Confidence” - Jimmy Carter, 7/4/79
“Despite the statistics that prove that humans never had it so good, we don’t feel so good.” “Our struggle to find contentment”, 11/25/16, The Seattle Times
Contentment does 3 very powerful things in our lives:
- It teaches us to see and value what is most important.
- It releases you from the tyranny of “more.”
- It roots you in the present.
6 Closing Practices for your consideration
- Practice Gratitude.
- Take your thoughts captive.
- Name it & Tame it.
- Stop buying things.
- Stop comparing.
- Regularly invest in the lives of others.
- Be content with what you have but never with who you are.
Philippians 4:10-13
10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 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. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.