Morning Devotionals

by Don Emmitte

 

May 4th, 2008

 

"Contentment (Part 2)"

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, 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. (Philippians10-13 NIV).

All learning is internal. Thus, contentment is internal. It's being satisfied, having an ease of mind. Contentment means detachment from anxious concerns over the externals of life. It's a calm acceptance of whatever life brings—an attitude of "it's okay." The person who is content has internal sufficiency regardless of outward circumstances. Paul, even with his hands in chains, accommodated himself to his situation.

In their book Life 101, John-Roger and Peter McWilliams state it this way: "Until we truly accept everything, we cannot see clearly." They go on to explain that accepting is not condoning, giving consent, agreeing with, or even liking what is. Acceptance is an internal conclusion that the way things are is the way things are. That these exact circumstances are allowed by God and, right now, it's enough.

I never had a better lesson taught to me concerning this principle than when I first began to take my sons hunting or fishing. I remember one weekend in particular when Kyle and I went to a lease I had in Mason County, Texas. We had the use of an old farmhouse on the property, so camping out was not really as rough as it might have been. Although I must admit it was “rustic” with no running water. We often cooked outdoors, though there was a propane stove that we could use inside the cabin. This particular weekend I had determined to cook a full breakfast of eggs, bacon, and biscuits for him. Unfortunately we were out of propane! Now, for those who have ever tried to fry bacon or scramble eggs over a grill, you know it was very frustrating. I felt that I had ruined his weekend. Finally, after putting together the breakfast and eating, he leaned back against the old cabin and said, “It doesn't get any better than this!”

Do you see it? His internal message was such that in the midst of a far from perfect situation, he was content. I relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the weekend too! Contentment is internal.