For many of us, our lives can look good on the outside, but inside there is a lack of contentment and peace. There is always longing. There are two solutions we often pursue to gain satisfaction: getting rid of or adding something to our lives, but neither brings contentment to the heart. In Philippians 4, Paul explains that he has found contentment in plenty and want because it’s found in Christ and his strength.

The first thing to consider about gaining contentment is that it is learned (v. 11). A heart that is seeking contentment can only gain it by looking at Christ’s life, learning more of his grace, and finding fulfillment in a relationship with Jesus. Then contentment will grow in your heart. The second consideration is that contentment can be found in all circumstances- in both need and abundance. The third consideration is that contentment comes through a Christ’s strength alone (v. 13).

How then can we gain this contentment? It is paradoxical. Fulfillment comes when we accept that we cannot be content with empty duties or empty obedience, but rather to seek God moment by moment of every day, never satisfied with the world. Direct the cravings of your heart toward him, and you will be strengthened by the satisfaction that cannot be matched by anything in the world. Your greatest satisfaction will come when you recognize that Christ is satisfied with you.