How do we define contentment (satisfaction) for ourselves and what brings us comfort and peace?
During uncertainty in these difficult stages of COVID-19, some people are struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, and discomfort. The Apostle Paul sends written greetings to thank the Philippians for their concern of him, but he provides hope in his letter by stating "...I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little." [Philippians 4:11- N.L.T.] Many of us are familiar with various situations that The Apostle Paul found himself in and through unpleasant circumstances, he remained faithful and encouraged others. He also writes to Timothy to warn him of following after riches and reminded him "So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content." [I Timothy 6:8-N.L.T.]
We have witnessed the greed and the harm that has come upon us in this nation. Therefore, let us be thankful for what the LORD provides for us daily: waking up healthy, housing, food, water, but most importantly "the bread of life" which brings confidence that when we have JESUS as our LORD and SAVIOR, eternal life is promised. If nothing else, we can hold onto knowing this to be true and to have peace because one day we will enter into our eternal home in Heaven with JESUS who is our only source of being content within ourselves. May we be content with what we have and not concern ourselves with what we do not have as the shelves in supermarkets become empty. We belong to The LORD and He will take care of us.
In an interactive service, the question was asked "How do you find peace?" Responses were as follows:
By reading the Bible
Praying
Fasting
Having a personal relationship with Jesus
Being obedient
Willingness to Change
Don't harden your heart
I am grateful for the contributors of E.S.M. members who share their good "Fruit of the Spirit" through words of wisdom.
During my time of re-organization at home, I came upon an index card that I had written that was meaningful enough to get my attention:
"Every tomorrow has two handles. We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith." by Henry Ward Beecher
This is certainly appropriate for us at this particular time in 2020.
As the days and weeks progress, I encourage you to start keeping a journal to write down some things that you enjoy. Jot down experiences and things that you may have learned about yourself while going through these events of coping with the national challenge of what is happening because of the pandemic. Think about some special occasions that brought joy, and for those with families treasure each moment with them and find some things to do together that will be memorable.
How short or long our lives will be is not to be determined by us; therefore, for each day that we are granted to live brings another opportunity to make the best of every situation. Spread love with those you cherish and use your time wisely and generously. Despite how the weather patterns have been, we are in the season of Spring and change is inevitable; start with organizing, cleaning, and getting rid of clutter. When doing chores, playing music always helps me to get through the mundane tasks and always lifts my spirit and may help you too. Remember to take moments of silence to listen for the whisper of The Holy Spirit to guide and direct you throughout the day. May you have a Blessed and Healthy week!
Love-in-Christ, Apostle Joni A. Kindell
I leave you with these scriptures to meditate upon:
"After all, we didn't bring anything with us when we came into the world and we certainly cannot carry anything with us when we die."[I Timothy 6:7-N.L.T.]
"Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." [2 Corinthians 12:10]
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