Contentment in Challenging
Times
Many of us have memorized and can quote the above scripture but we may not be familiar with the context in which the Apostle Paul wrote it. Paul was addressing the church about their giving and about his attitude as a minister to handle tough situations, like writing this letter from a Roman jail. The Philippian Church had obviously gone through a
dry spell. They wanted to give to Paul's ministry, but for some reason could not and now they were beginning to give again and Paul was commending them for their offerings and their support of his ministry.
Ministry can be a lonesome and challenging place sometimes, especially when the finances are not there to do what you know you are called by God to do. Paul learned how to act
when he was abased (depressed, humiliated, or broke) and how to act when he abounded (had an excess or abundance). He stated, "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therefore to be content". Now that is the real test for all of us, not just ministers, and that takes patience, maturity, and a lot of faith.
To be very truthful, I would much rather abound versus being abased, but I
have learned over the years that there will be some tough and dry seasons and I can not allow myself to grow weary in well doing. If I ever start feeling sorry for myself I make myself read the following scripture and it quickly puts things back into the proper perspective:
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud witnesses, let us lay aside every
weight (burden, load, hindrance), and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him (think about what He went through for us) that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in
your minds. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. (Hebrews 12:1-4)
I want to encourage all the Christian ministers, entrepreneurs, business owners, leaders and givers out there to not grow weary! If you are going through Hell, don't stop! Keep pushing forward! Keep sowing! You will reap! Harvest time is
coming!
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