Beware the barrenness of a busy mind is one of the more profound statements made by the ancient philosopher, Socrates, who laid the groundwork for Western systems of logic and philosophy during his lifetime (470 BC to 399 BC).
It is remarkable that busyness and the associated issues of stress, anxiety and restlessness were as much a part of society then as it is today.
The relentless search for a peaceful, happy and conflict free life appears to have eluded humankind ever since the beginning of time. But it does seem to be spiralling out of control in todays technologically advanced and information driven society. We continue to feel troubled by a host of issues despite massive progress in practically every field of endeavour. Issues such as political tension, consumer debt, fragile economies, stressful lifestyles, underlying fears and insecurity as well as the scourges of domestic violence, rape, unemployment, debilitating illnesses, family conflict, wars and crime persist unabated.
A climate of tension, uneasiness and uncertainty about what the future holds gnaws at our hearts and minds continuously. How do we find contentment in the midst of all the turmoil that surrounds us?
The apostle Paul mentioned in his letter to the Philippians that he had learned to be content whatever the circumstances. How so? What is the real secret of contentment?
Lets explore a few scriptures in Philippians chapter 4 and unravel this extraordinary secret to inner peace and calmness in our lives, especially in the face of adversity.
Notice Philippians 4:11-12, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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.
From the darkness of a dungeon
It is important to understand that Paul was no stranger to suffering. He endured the tortuous pain of several severe floggings (forty lashes minus one) and a few near death experiences as well as trials of fierce persecution and imprisonment. In fact Paul wrote this inspiring letter of encouragement to the Philippians while chained in the starkness and darkness of a Roman dungeon.
Paul reveals the essence of the secret in Philippians 4:13, which follows naturally after the verses above. Here we find a familiar and much quoted passage of scripture: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Yet, the richer meaning of this particular verse is often lost when quoted out of the context of the preceding verses.
Matthew Henrys Complete Commentary of the Bible clarifies the meaning of this verse as follows: We need his strength to teach us to be content in every condition. The TNIV (Todays NIV) reads: I can do all this through Christ who strengthens me. Here the word this refers to the matter of contentment explained by Paul in verses 11 and 12.
The Voice Bible contextualises Philippians 4:13 beautifully: I can be content in any and every situation through the Anointed One who is my power and strength.
Paul was not talking about the power to do anything. He was celebrating the fact that he had learned to be content in the power and strength of our loving God in Christ, regardless of the circumstances.
The Voice Bible Commentary explains: True contentment is the result of a heart committed to the risen Lord. Think of all the sins, pain, and brokenness that come from coveting [the opposite of contentment]. Adultery, murder, stealing, and lying can all be traced directly to a prior condition where hearts and minds are frustrated and discontent. The normal, natural state of humanity is discontent and quiet desperation. It takes a powerful spiritual presence to transform anxiety into joyous satisfaction. Despite the chains, Paul discovers this beautiful state of inner peace through the power of Jesus residing in him.
Paul learned that real contentment lies not in something, but in Someone. He had found within himself an inexhaustible resource for every circumstance and situation in the person of Jesus Christ, abiding in his heart and mind.
Philippians 4:6-7 gives further insight, Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Contentment is an elusive condition for most people in todays fast paced society. Many tend to believe it is something that comes from outside of themselves, whether it be possessions, money, power, a secure job or a problem free life. The moment we become dependent upon the world to give our life meaning, happiness and joy, we place ourselves in the wearisome position of becoming a victim of unhappiness and discontent.
Who we are in Christ carries far more value than what we have!
Perhaps now is the time to reflect on your current lifestyle and whether busyness is crowding out the space for the Lord to deepen your life. I think we are all aware of the need to remain spiritually strong by staying closely in touch with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Yet, we often find ourselves competing with the reality of having so much to do. And this gobbles up valuable time for us to just be. We then become unaware of the Triune God residing in our hearts and minds. We may even try and make up for lost time by praying on the run; while driving or standing in a queue or running on the treadmill at the gym. And this is fine. But, it is also important for us to understand the need for quiet time with the Lord.
We are encouraged in Psalm 46:10 to be still, and know that I am God. How about diarising a few appointments with God at the start of every week? Decide on a place of solitude, without distractions or interruptions, where you can really focus on getting to know him more deeply and intimately through prayer, meditation and/or scripture reading.
God is your anchor who walks with you in good times and those dark moments of pain and suffering. He is always at your side and will never leave or forsake you. As the apostle Paul learned, I can be content in any and every situation through the Anointed One who is my power and strength.