Right now, are you in the state of Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Wyoming or another? Are you in the state of confusion or clarity? Are you in the state of denial or acceptance? Are you in the state of luxury or despair? Are you in a state of health or illness? Each of us right now is in one state or another, using that word to describe a variety of life circumstances.
In Philippians 4:11, Paul said, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Life throws an array of circumstances our way, which often leave us wishing for more money, better times, brighter days or fairer treatment. While all matters are not equal and while it is not wrong to have hopes, dreams, wishes and aspirations in our lives, the lesson that Paul had learned is the lesson we need to strive to learn—no matter in what state I find myself, I am and will be content!
For, as Paul said in another letter, “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Tim. 6:6). There is nothing worth gaining more than living in the state of contentment with your Lord.