It’s tough to remain content in a world where hunger and plenty alternate without warning. Our satisfaction often rides the roller coaster of our circumstances. Gaining one thing on our want list only seems to yield more wants! What is the secret of contentment Paul speaks of?
Actually, Paul learned it from Jesus. Jesus learned the secret of contentment one day at a time. He studied creation and observed that His Father fed the birds and clothed the lilies. From that bit of wisdom, He taught us, “Look at the birds of the air.” He is the wise man we can turn to when we’re struggling. He will give us wisdom.
Jesus also gained the strength to be content one day at a time. For example, in the wilderness He suffered want and was surely tempted to be discontent, just as we are. But when Satan taunted Him with an offer of bread, Jesus resisted the devil and won. Each time He did that, He earned the strength that He would give to Paul and to us. Jesus faced hunger so that our lives might be filled to overflowing with Him.