10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.
11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Phil. 4:10-13 ESV)
My Beloved,
I’ve come to cut the bond between your satisfaction and your situation.
Too often I watch how your contentment rises and falls in rythm with your circumstance. On days when the sun is shining, your work load is light, and your home life is smooth, you are a delight to be around. But on days when the clouds abound, the to-do list is too long, and the home fires are a little too hot, you’re a grump.
It doesn’t have to be that way. I’ve come to cut the bond between satisfaction and situation.
Stop rejoicing in things that are bound to change from one day to the next. Root your joy in the One that remains changless from day to day–me. If you’ll let your relationship with me be the ultimate bedrock of your happiness, you’ll experience far greater consistency in your contentment. Whether the skies are grey or grand, I’m here. Whether there’s good news or bad, I’m here. Whether stocks are up or down, I’m here.
I’ve come to grant that rarest of treasures–a pleasure and peace possible in plenty or in poverty.
With love,
Father
