All of us know secrets, things which others don’t know but we do. Perhaps it’s a family secret that would be embarrassing if exposed. Perhaps it’s a secret talent that no one knows you have. Whatever the secret, it is something you know but others don’t.

The Apostle Paul speaks of the secret of the Christian life. He uses the Greek word μεμύημαι (memuēmai)which means a “shut mouth or eyes.” A secret is something of a mystery in that it is not seen or spoken. So what is the secret of the Christian life? It is described for us in Philippians 4:11-13. The secret is that Christians have learned to be content regardless of their circumstances. Whether you have a lot of money or a little, a lot of food or barely enough to survive, whether you're single or married, Christians have learned to be content.

Why? Why should we be content? The world isn’t. The world doesn’t believe in contentment. The world believes in striving for more, more wealth, more power, more fame, more possessions. So why should Christians be content? Because Paul says, “I can do all things through Him (Christ Jesus) who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Christ is the secret. He is the reason you can be content. He sees you. He knows your need. He will “supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. . .” (Philippians 4:19). Christ will give you the strength you need to be content with a lot or a little. In 1 Timothy 6:8, Paul gives us the two bare essentials which all of us need in this life: food and covering (clothing, housing). Everything else is gravy!

How? How will Christ strengthen you to be content in all circumstances? As you respond in faith to trust Him, He will give you supernatural inner peace and joy in the tough times. He will teach you to be content. It’s something we learn because it’s not natural. It’s supernatural. That’s what Philippians 4:11 says. The Apostle Paul had “to learn to be content.” So will you and I.

Does being content mean God will make you happy in the tough times? No, happiness is dependent on circumstances going our way. Rather, Christ will give you strength and perseverance to cope with your difficult situation. By the way, He doesn’t give His strength and perseverance too soon. He gives it at the exact time needed, not a moment sooner.

Finding contentment in Christ Jesus alone,

Irv