09/18/2026
Sometimes life seems just right. Things are falling into place, nothing stressful is happening at the moment. Maybe we live in the house we always wanted, it is decorated and set up exactly as planned, the housework is done, the kids are in bed, and everything is comfortable, calm and peaceful. Those are times we look around and think, wow, God has richly blessed us.
We thank God for all the great things we have: a beautiful family, friends, church, a great position at work or a thriving business, and the list goes on.
Occasionally I wonder how I might feel if the many blessings in my life were taken away. Would I still have peace? Would I still be content? Would I be able to say, “It is well with my soul”?
The thought of losing the wonderful blessings God has supplied is frightening to me. It's even a little scary as I simply consider the true meaning of contentment from a biblical perspective. I would still trust Him, but I also know that it is much easier to speak of contentment when life is comfortable than when I am actually walking through loss, disappointment, or need.
Paul knew both sides. He knew what it was to have plenty, and he knew what it was to be in need.
In Philippians 4:12 Paul wrote: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”
Then in the very next verse he says:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
Paul’s strength was not found in having everything he wanted. His strength came from Christ. He had learned that peace and contentment were not dependent on his circumstances.
That challenges me.
I am deeply thankful for the blessings God has given me, and I do not want to take them for granted. But I also do not want my peace to depend on keeping every blessing exactly as it is today.
Maybe true contentment is being able to enjoy and give thanks for God’s gifts without making them the source of my security. Maybe peace is not knowing that nothing bad will ever happen, but knowing that whatever happens, God will be there.
Habakkuk expressed that type of faith when he said that even if the crops failed and the livestock were gone, “yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” Habakkuk 3:17–18
That is the kind of faith I want, the kind of faith I pray for. Having that kind of faith doesn't mean loss would not hurt, or that fear is not real. Rather it is a faith so rooted in Christ that even when life changes, I would still be content and able to say it is well with my soul. That is my prayer
Join us for the Revive Refresh Renew Ladies Worship Event for a night of fellowship, inspiration, and praise!
