Msg #2306 Contentment With His Glory

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan's Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

The letter to the Philippians shows the power source for living a joyful Christian life. “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content” (Phil.4:11). This is not a natural reaction, it is a learned behavior. Paul already spoke of the philosophy, the pattern, and the price of Christian living and shows its power to be in our, stand (4:1-4), prayer life (4:5–7), sanctified mind (4:8–9), and now, our contentment in where we are at, and what we are facing (4:11–13). “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need” (4:12).

Being content, even in the most trying of circumstances, acknowledges that God knows what he is doing, and that I trust him. The Bible has many examples where God allows, or leads, his followers into impossible circumstances. It's for his glory, honor and/or recognition. Twice the disciples were led into a boat (Matt.8:22-23,14:22); both times they ended up in a great storm (8:24,14:24), and both times Jesus was gloriously magnified (8:26–27,14:25).

The Israelites were led into what Pastor Young called a “culdesac.” There was no place to turn. “And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, … The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. … And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD” (Exod.14:13–14, 18).

Learn to be content. Don’t pray, “Lord get me out of this circumstance!” but pray, “Lord be magnified in this circumstance.” Whether you are “jammed up“ because of your own blunder, or in his leading, seek his glory. The tougher the circumstance, the greater his glory.

An Essay for week #6 - Feb 5, 2023

Msg in audio at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/audio/gs230205.mp3

A Holy Land Tour Journaled at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/israel22

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A weekly 300 word essay- The Penny Pulpit
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