What if you could be content with nothing but hunger and need: That is the absurdity of what Paul is telling us in Philippians 4. But the truth is you are most fulfilled not when your plate is full or your bank account is full but when your heart and mind is full of the hope of Christ Jesus.
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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.”
Philippians 4:11-12b (NIV)
“Realize how strong a claim this is. Remember Paul’s circumstances. We all want inner peace, but you and I are trying to get inner peace to face what? Our bills, competition at work, a difficult boss, our big date or a lack of dates. But Paul was facing torture and death.”
Timothy Keller | Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering