Michael E. Wood
May 12, 2015
But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we
brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if
we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.
1 Timothy 6:6-8
Keep your life free from love of money, and be
content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor
forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned
in whatever situation I am to be content. 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. I
can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13
It’s pretty amazing how we can think we are content until
something as simple as the telephone lines going down for a couple of days not
only impacts our use of the phone but also access to the internet and makes us
realize how dependent we have become on technology in our current culture in
the western world. For some this could apply to their use of cell phones. For
others perhaps it is access to your favorite television programs. The degree of
stress could likewise be intensified if you have a business contingent on these services.
In no way am I advocating that we should sit back and do nothing to reconcile our situation, but what I am asking is how does something of this nature make us feel? Do we find ourselves in a sense of despair, because we don’t know what to do with ourselves? Are we driven to make unwise decisions to rectify the situation? How do we react to those with whom we are reliant for help in our particular situation? Do we have the peace which passes understanding, the self control to take responsibility not only for our actions but for the manner in which we address others, and the joyful patience to wait on the Lord and find contentment in the present circumstances?
When the phone doesn’t work and the lines are all down
Then trust in the One in Whom grace doth abound.
And do what you can as you wait for repair,
Rejoice in the truth, staying not in despair.
Refocus on things which you have as gift
As the mercies in Christ will alone you uplift
To restore such a joy by His Spirit to take
A hold of His promise to never forsake
Or leave you adrift in this short little trial
But cause you to look on His face with a smile.
For nothing that’s good will He ever withhold
To make you content as a sheep of His fold.
For no earthly loss can come close to compare
With the glory awaiting His children to share.
So thank Him and praise Him in all things below
And give Him the glory, Who has you in tow,
Unfolding the way as you cast every care
Upon Him who promised your burdens to bear.
