We love watching a television program that follows people searching for a new home. It becomes quickly evident that there are some essentials people today want in a new home. People want granite countertops, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, a large master bedroom with attached bath, a nice yard and a host of other amenities. The problem is that the expectations and wish lists of people today have grown faster than their ability to pay for such things. The resulting debt, mortgages "under water" and a host of other challenges are harming families and lives.
Perhaps it is time for us to recover the simple biblical teaching that calls us, as Christians, to be content in life. Paul's letter to the Philippian believers is a book about joy. And, it is written from prison where he has been confined because of his preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The apostle tells us that he has learned to be content in whatever circumstances he finds himself. The word "content" in this context means "to be self-contained." It describes a life that is not controlled by the externals of life but by the inner relationship we have with Jesus Christ, through faith in Him.
Paul had those times in his life when he was abundantly blessed (Phll. 4:12) and those moments when he found himself in what he refers to as "humble means." Yet, his strength came from Christ (4:13) who gave him what he needed to be joyful regardless of his circumstances.
He believed that God would supply all his needs, according to His riches in Christ. If we are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, His promise is that "all these other things" will be added to us. (Matt. 6:33). It is not a promise that we'll necessarily become wealthy or have every wish granted, but it means we'll be the content, fulfilled, joyous people God intends for us to be regardless the circumstances.
In fifty years of preaching, I've found that some of the most joyous, content people are those who appear to have the least and the most difficult of experiences. Why? Because they have learned to rest their lives in the hands of God. Tozer noted that we don't have to try being so clever but instead should be more committed to Him who has redeemed us and now empowers us.
You may have granite countertops and a wonderful master bedroom, but life is more than these when you know Him.