Are you a contented person or are you always wanting more? Contentment is about being full. Are you a thermometer or thermostat? Paul was a thermostat. What about you? What about me?

1 – Contentment is a love relationship (vs. 10)

See Galatians 5:11.

• It’s revolutionary (See Philippians 3:4-11). Christ had found Paul and Paul had found Christ. His life was changed!
• It’s ongoing. The love for Christ was on-going. There is a life to be lived together – just like marriage goes beyond the ceremony. Has the thrill gone? Despite Paul’s problems he continued to rejoice in the Lord. What about you?

2 – Contentment is a learned experience (vs. 11-12)

Paul had learned that God was sovereign in his life despite the high and lows.

• It’s learned in the school of life. Paul did not refuse to learn. Life is a great tutor. The cost can be high. How do you react to your circumstances? The person who is content has inward resources that overcome outward circumstances.
• It is a God dependant life. It’s the fruit of a dependant life.

3 – Contentment is a living relationship and experience (vs. 13)

Paul’s relationship was not upset by his external circumstances. He had contentment that came from the power of Christ. See 2 Peter 1. God has given us everything we need. I may not be everything we want!

• Power of Christ – Godliness with contentment is great gain
• Presence of Christ – Are you living in Christ? Can you put your life in Christ into practice? See Hebrews 12. Do you have contentment? Are you at peace with God and others? Are you a thermometer or thermostat?

Categories: Philippians