The Secret

Life is difficult and not static. There are ups and downs each day, struggles and accomplishments. How do we stay fixed on the things that are most important and not allow our emotions to be like a roller coaster based on our circumstances?

Paul learned how to do this. Even when he was in jail, he praised the Lord. When he had plenty, he kept his heart fixed on the kingdom. God is the one who gives us strength in the storms and trials, and He is the author and giver of all good things. Our hearts can remain steadfast in Him.

Summary & Scripture

^“…I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ,^[a] who gives me strength…” Philippians 4:11-14

Scripture

1. “I have learned how to be content”
   • Content- satisfied, a state of peaceful happiness or satisfactionLearned- Paul who was well educated and a teacher himself communicates the profit in being a studentProverbs 22:12 “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge”
2. “I have learned the secret of living in every situation”
   • Reference- (Acts 16:25) “While Paul and Silas were in jail, they prayed and sang hymns to God” Prayer- a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to GodPraise- to express warm approval, respect and gratitude, especially in song
3. “I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength”
   • “Everything”- in other translations, you may see the word “all”, meaning all – In every situation, in life, in all things

Application

Where do you find your peace and contentment? 

Do you give priority to reading the scripture in your daily routine? How about prayer and praise?

Do you still desire to be a student of or have you let yourself settle with being comfortable?

Do you continue to apply your heart to learning, prayer and praise?

Prayer

During trying circumstances, may the word of God, prayer and praise give you strength to have peace in the eye of the storm.  They say the calmest place in a tornado is the middle of it.  O’ Lord, give us a deep desire to apply ourselves to finding peace in your words.  May we be diligent in setting aside time to give you our hearts in prayer and in song.  Lord, fill us with your Spirit and give us strength for each new day so that we may say, “I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength”.

“You will keep in perfect peace, all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah 26:3