Philippians 4:12

Listen:

From his imprisonment Paul wrote:

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 4:12 (NIV)

Reflect:

Many of us have experienced plenty and want to new levels recently. That could be in basic food needs, financial security or changing health. Most of us, like Paul in his prison, have experienced plenty and want in our need to meet in person with others.

Have you experienced a deep hunger to see and gather with people or to physically touch someone? Have you felt overwhelmed with too many people locked down in a small space? Perhaps you’ve experienced times of fear when crowded spaces have felt hostile. Perhaps you have lost a loved one. Many of us have experienced a mixture of these.

Pause and breathe deeply. Remember God’s presence. Invite him to accompany you in your thoughts as you reflect on your own experience of need and plenty in recent times, recalling the moments of grief and joy, of longing and of receiving. (You may find it helpful to write your thoughts down).

Read our verse again and think about what you have learnt though this time:

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 4:12 (NIV)

Thank the Lord for what you have learnt. Invite him to teach you to be content in any and every situation. 

Question to Ponder:

How can I serve those around me in their loss and in their hunger and need?
To go further, read Philippians chapter 1 remembering Paul’s contentment. 

Prayer of Response:

Lord, thank you for being with me through all the ups and downs of recent months. May I recognize your presence no matter my circumstances and may I find contentment in you always. 

—Submitted by Sylvana Botterill
Sylvana is a long serving member of the Lifesprings’ leadership team and recently relocated from France to the UK with her husband and their three children.