I believe one of the primary characteristics of spiritual maturity is our readiness to accept whatever condition we are in without complaining. Paul wrote, "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content" (Philippians 4:11). The Greek word for content here means self-sufficient. Paul is certainly not claiming self-sufficiency in the way we speak of it—autonomy and independence. No, he is declaring that Jesus is all he needs. With Christ indwelling him, Paul says ‘I am self-contained’ not wanting or needing anything more than I already have.
Spiritual maturity comes when we have learned to trust Jesus has given us all we need. But let me be quick to add: being content in an undesirable circumstance doesn't mean we enjoy it. It means we have learned to focus on Jesus’ sufficiency—not on our discomfort. We have joy (not 'en'joy) knowing our Lord is using the circumstance to mature our faith, and that it is, in fact, ‘normal’ and ‘necessary’ for our growth in faith.
Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. (1 Peter 5:9-10). In other words, you will have all you need: self-contained.
This is definitely a challenge for me. I am just beginning to realize how angry I get in unfavorable circumstances. I need this Word. Thank you. Greg.
ReplyDeleteYes, we all tend to focus too much on what we don't have rather than what we have IN Christ! Of His fullness we have received!
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