Learning to be Content

Learning to be Content

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever
circumstances I am. Philippians 4:11

I love the true story of Fanny Crosby, the beloved hymn writer of
yesteryear. When Fanny was a baby, she developed inflammation in her eyes. A
quack doctor
prescribed the wrong treatment, and as a result, young Fanny went blind.

Fanny easily could have become a bitter person. She easily could have viewed
life through the jaded lens of resentment and anger over what had happened
to her. She could have been a constant whiner over the injustice done to
her. But she refused to fall into that trap. Regardless of her
circumstances,
she chose to be thankful and content. In fact, she penned these words:

"Oh what a happy soul I am,
Although I cannot see;
I am resolved that in this world
Contented I will be.
How many blessings I enjoy,
That other people don't;
To weep and sigh because I'm blind,
I cannot, and I won't."

THE 33 PERCENT RULE

Sue Enquist, the legendary softball coach of the UCLA Bruins' (1989 - 2006),
was known for the 33 Percent Rule. In her way of thinking, you can divide
people into three categories. The bottom 33 percent of people always whine
and complain. These are the folks that suck the fun out of anything and
everything.
The middle 33 percent have an attitude that fluctuates from good to bad
depending on circumstances. They are good to be around provided all is going
well
for them. The top 33 percent choose a positive attitude regardless of the
circumstances. No matter what they are facing, they are joyful, hopeful, and
thankful.

Fanny Crosby was in the top 33 percent. What about you?

AWARE AND FIGHTING FOR IT

It is easy for me to slip into the middle category of the 33 Percent Rule.
If I am not sensitive to what is coming out of my mouth, I can let negative
circumstances make me negative. But, if I stop and take the time to see that
God is over every circumstance, I can chose to thank Him for the adversity
and look to see what He is going to teach me through it all.

Every trial is a test. Every hardship is an opportunity to thank God, trust
God and grow stronger in your faith.

Will you take inventory of your life today? Are you living with contentment,
regardless of the circumstances? Are you choosing to rejoice and praise God
even in the face of adversity? If not, you can start today.

PRAYER

Dear God, please forgive me for whining and griping about my circumstances:
my bad job, my terrible boss, my back-stabbing co-worker, my evaporating
finances,
my bad health, my troubled marriage, my ____________ _________ . Lord, I know
that You are over every circumstance and situation. You have allowed this
trial
to come to me to help me grow and shine for You. I choose to face my
difficulties with a strong and renewed faith, knowing that You will see me
through
as I trust You. Thank You, Lord. Regardless of what happens today, I choose
by faith to make it a great day! Amen.
Love, Jeff Schreve Pastor