Contentment

It took me years to come to a place in my life where I am content. As Paul says in Philippians 4:11, I learned to "be content whatever the circumstances." What is the secret to finding contentment? First, we must become confident in who we are: Children of the One, True King. "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." - John 1:12 While I wish I could say this confidence always existed, it too took years to cultivate. I had to clear away all of the debris the world left heaped upon me. I had to learn that it isn't my outward appearance that makes me beautiful or worthwhile. Rather, it is my heart, God's word hiding there, and His love shining brightly from my heart that make me beautiful. When I learned to see myself through His eyes rather than the world's standards, I was able to not only be content in being His child but I could also share His love with others. Then, I had to learn to "rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances" as 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 instructs us to do. When I am faced with a very bad pain day, I give God thanks and rejoice in the blessings He has given me. When I sing praises to Him, I am saying "[His] grace [and love] is sufficient for [me], for my power is made perfect in weakness.” When I am at my weakest, His strength, mercy, and love come shining brightly through me and bring Him all the glory, honor, and praise. When He is glorified, I am content. That is what life has taught me thus far.