I read an essay not long ago by Dr. Louis Birkenstock that resonated with me.
He wrote “Too many of us waste our years waiting for better times in the future or wondering about better times in the past instead of working for better times in the present.
If only we had lived-in better times or had been born in better times . . .lived with better people . . lived in a better home or a better town . . .had a better business or better job.
If – if – if! Tomorrow – tomorrow – tomorrow! But today is always here; yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come. No, now is the time – here is the place.
This is your home, your job, your spouse, your child, your parents, your friends and your people . . . You can have a wonderful time just where you are, just how you are, just with whoever you are.”
Profound words to ponder on living in the moment, being present now.
Paul told the Philippians “ . . . I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am in” Phil 4:11.
He knew his provision and strength came from God, in poverty or prosperity, having it all or nothing at all.
This from a man who was whipped five different times beaten with rods three times, stoned once and shipwrecked.
He faced danger from rivers, robbers, Jews and Gentiles, in cities, deserts and on seas, was familiar with sleepless nights, hunger, thirst and freezing temperatures with no shelter.
Now he carried a daily burden for the churches. 2 Cor 11:24 – 28
Earlier he wrote “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Phil 3:14. He pressed forward from a place of contentment not at the cost of it.
If we can’t be content when we don’t have what we want, we won’t be when we do.
Contentment invites rest but not complacency. It’s loving where we are and who we are on the way to where we want to go and grow.
It’s partnering with God every morning and giving Him gratitude each night.
Contentment is not settling. It isn’t laziness. It does however provide peace during your growth process and joy for your journey.
Sandra Hubbard
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