I have Learned to be Content

I have learned to be content….Phil 4:11

I was putting Isaac to sleep the other night and feeling sad about autism.

He doesn’t say new things. He says the same thing.

Lay down…sleepy.

He is now 8 ½ almost 9 and I am human. I get sad. I wish he could have a conversation with me.

But I don’t want to stay there.

 So I reflect on what God has done.

Self talk: I remind myself what God has done.

Remember when you prayed and prayed for Isaac to talk?

God answered that prayer

Remember when you prayed and prayed Isaac would be potty trained?

God answered that prayer.

Remember when you prayed and asked God to help Isaac not bite other kids at school?

God is answering this prayer

Remember you asked God for break throughs? 

Like for Isaac to sleep through the night because he would wake up 2-3 times a night and start playing very loud and you had broken sleep for 6 straight years?

He sleeps through the night now doesn’t he? Yes.

I have learned to be content.

I find myself fighting with myself.

On one hand I am thrilled at all the break throughs and miraculous answers to prayer God has moved mightily in Isaac’s life. I am so full of joy.

On the other hand…Isaac still has autism and some days and/or moments are hard.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I stopped and meditated on this verse. I tried to put myself in Paul’s shoes.

He was shipwrecked, persecuted, imprisoned, stoned, hungry, cold…etc.

I have learned to be content. Phil 4:11

Then I meditated on the word “learn” My husband is a teacher and we always talk about the learning process.

That’s it!!!

It’s a process…I have learned to be content. It’s not like a light bulb. It’s a daily sacrificial learning. 

Some days are great and I am learning to be content. Somedays are hard and I have to re-learn to be content. I will get there…I will with God’s grace say like Paul “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances”

It’s a learning process. We “LEARN” how to be content by reminding ourselves of God’s character (through His names) and by meditating on His promises.

I have learned to be content.

I like the ESV

"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content."

May we put the enemy in his place. 

May we tell our emotions- NO. I am not going there..I am not going to feel sorry about this circumstance 

I am going to learn to be content and in that state I find JOY in His presence!

Olivia blessed my heart. She said her friends were arguing and she did not change her mood. She continued to try to crack jokes and stay calm. “Why are you so nice?” they asked her. “I am just trying to be like my mom. Even when situations are hard…she stays happy” she said.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstance. If my daughter is learning this and putting it into practice all I can say is Glory to God. Wow, what a Great God we serve!