Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. 

Philippians 4:11-13

In a couple of days, many of us will sit around a table with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving.  With that in mind, let’s consider the topic of contentment as described by Paul in the verses above.

How would you define contentment in a single word (other than contentment)? How about, satisfied? In my business world, being satisfied with your achievement is generally frowned upon, but being content in your current circumstances is something to be pursued.

Paul had learned that contentment was not dependent on his circumstances. Being satisfied was not found in having enough or having too little food in his stomach. Contentment is found in dependence on Christ alone in spite of our circumstances.

And remember that Paul “learned the secret of living in every situation” and being able to “do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” is a proclamation of dependence on Christ.