“For I have learned how to be content [satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted] in whatever state I am. I have learned in any and all circumstances the secret of facing every situation. I have strength for all things in Christ who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency]” (Philippians 4:11b, 12b, 13)

Because of Paul’s surrendered and devoted relationship to Jesus Christ, he learned how to be content in both easy and difficult circumstances. He received this valuable education in the same “school of life” that we all attend. In fact, all types of learning-whether in the physical, spiritual, or emotional realms-involve victory and failure, but they will eventually lead to success if we persevere through the course. We can learn how to be content by embracing the secret of drawing empowering strength from Christ. This inner strength is ours to take; we need only ask, believe, receive, then trust the spiritual process. It is His desire to flood us with inner strength and make us self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency. At last, we will achieve contentment, satisfaction, peace, and ease of mind, no matter what the circumstance!