"Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 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. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." Phil. 4:11-13
In these verses, Apostle Paul seems to have found a way to be content with whatever circumstances he faces. Whether he is hungry or well fed, he is joyful. It is extremely difficult to be happy when we are hungry. We tend to be easily irritable. I know this. Yet, Paul who is writing this letter from prison, can write of being content.
The Covid 19 pandemic has left us with much to fear. Many are still without jobs or their hours of work have been drastically reduced. Some parents on the other hand have returned to full time work causing them to ponder and worry over their child care needs.
Yet, what are we to gleam from Apostle Paul's writing? For me, I hear;
- make the most of a bad situation.
- be flexible in order to achieve your goals. It may mean taking a back step, a side side or even a step forward. The thing is, take a step.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Share your concerns with a trusted friend or family member. How can they be of help to you?
- Ask others in your situation what are they doing? Coming together tightens bonds and resources.
- Making adjustments in our way of thinking may be necessary. We have been "doing" life one way for so long. Now that way may no longer work. Make adjustments.
This list of "new" stuff can only be possible if we allow our faith and our prayers to work for us. Paul said, I found joy and contentment because "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
We need that strength if we are going to conquer how to live amid a pandemic. Our strength comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. It is a strength which is able to act above and beyond what we think is possible. That is the strength which comes through Jesus Christ. It moves us beyond our limited imaginations and desires. Jesus' strength knows no limits or boundaries. And His strength allows us to live in the midst of a crisis and still thrive. For truly in Christ "we live and move and have our being."
I pray your strength in Christ will give you the boost you need to meet the days ahead.
Enjoy - You are my Strength
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylfSUdutSRQ
You are my strength when I weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all