The Secret of Contentment “…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances…” (Phil.4:11b)

“…for 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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Phil 4:11-13).

Map of Philippi

To be content we need to know who our Provider is 1. A Faithful God a. “The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made” (Psalm 145:13b) b. “Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them – the LORD, who remains faithful forever” (Ps 146:5-6) c. “O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago (Isa 25:1).

…we need to know who our Provider is 2. The Lord who provides (Jehovah Jireh) a. “So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide” (Gen.22:14) b. “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:19) c. “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Tim 6:17).

…we need to know who our Provider is 3. Our Good Shepherd a. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want” (Psalm 23:1) b. Jesus said in John 10 that He is the great Shepherd who laid down His life for us all

The Secret to Contentment: 1. A Thankful Heart a. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess his name” (Heb 13:15). b. “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess 5:16-18). c. "A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues“ (Cicero).

Count Your Blessings by Johnson Oatman, Jr. When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed, when you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, count your many blessings name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings ev'ry doubt will fly, and you will be singing as the days go by. When you look at others with their lands and gold, think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; count your many blessings money cannot buy your reward in heaven nor your home on high. So amid the conflict, whether great or small, do not be discouraged. God is over all; count your many blessings angels will attend, help and comfort give you to your journey's end. Refrain: Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done! Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

…The Secret to Contentment: 2. Be Secure in Yourself a. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:13-14) b. David’s plan to build a Temple for God (1 Sam 7:1-3).

Map of Israel in OT Time

Threshing Floor

Solomon’s Temple

Bethany Hamilton – Soul Surfer