Content: Finding Joy Where You Are

Few people are truly content with their lives. This seems especially true here lately. But, Paul was able to find contentment even in the worst of scenarios. What was his secret? Let’s study Philippians 4:10-20 and find out!

I. Secret #1 – V10-13: Rejoice in Your Substance

A. The word “Content” comes from a word (Greek: Autarkeis) that means “” [auto (self) + arkeo (strength, defense, sufficient)]

B. Contentment is a .

C. We must learn the same challenging lesson that Paul learned: to   and focus . In Him, we can and find . 

Scripture: Proverbs 13:7; Matthew 6:32-33; 25:31-46; Galatians 6:10; 1 Peter 4:10; 1 Timothy 5:18; 2 Cor 11:24-28; Acts 16:25; John 16:33; 1 Timothy 6:7-8; Hebrews 13:5-6

II. Secret #2 – V14-18: Rest in Your Situation

A. We often think we are the only ones going through problems. The fact is, there are often many who with you, even in the church.

B. You want to be content? Then put things in their proper place – if it’s of the , it’s temporary, not capable of providing true satisfaction. But that which is of can sustain us for eternity.

C. When we give cheerfully, God is pleased and it’s described as “”.

Scripture: Romans 12:15; 1 John 2:15-17; Leviticus 1:13;

III. Secret #3 – V19-20: Realize Your Strength

A. Take Christ out of Christian and what do you have? The letters I-A-N = “” 

B. Five practical ways to develop contentment

1. Practice .
2. Take control of .
3. Stop .
4. others.
5. Be content with , but never with .

Scripture: Galatians 6:10; 1 Timothy 6:6; Philippians 4:6; 2 Tim 1:3; Ps 119:11; Matt 13:23; Romans 8:37-39; John 3:16; 1 Peter 2:9; Hebrews 5:12