Phil 4:12-13
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.
NIV

Several years ago I was sitting in my office at 4 a.m. in the morning, after going for a two mile walk through the new-fallen snow when I realized what contentment was all about. It is not about your circumstances, because as we know circumstances change. It is not about being married or single, having kids or not having kids, because that can change as well. I discovered it was about being at peace with God; walking with Him, talking with Him, and resting in Him. I recently bought a cup with one of those cute sayings on it.

"PEACE"
"It does not mean to be in a place where there in no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart."

Are you at peace where you are at right now? Are you content to just let things be and make sure that nothing slips out of place? Or are you looking for the next position up the ladder, or the next job that will enable you to make more money than you are now? I was like that; I thought that if only I could move here or take this job or make it to the next level I would have what I want and not have to worry about anything. What I missed is what God was doing in my life where I was at. I know a man who does not owe anything to anyone. He does not drive, yet still gets where he is going. He has more money saved in his bank than I ever had in my life, and yet he makes less money than most people. And best of all, he is content to do what he is doing and live a life that is free from stress. He walks with Jesus like most of us do, yet he knows in the bottom of his heart that if he lost everything, he could make it back the same way as before one step at a time.

My challenge to you folks this month is simple. Be content with where you are at and what you have. It does not mean to abandon your goals, just when making your goals remember that you can’t take it with you when Jesus calls you home.

Richard Ignizio
Christian Chef

If God is speaking to your heart about these things, and you need somebody to talk with, please don't hesitate to e-mail us about your need and somebody from the Fellowship will contact you as soon as possible.  If you have a prayer request or would like to start a theological discussion on this or any other topic please feel free to post it in our Message Boards.