Philippians 4:10-13 – 10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (New International Version)

How to Experience Real Contentment

1. Learn to avoid ____________________________________

2 Corinthians 4:18 – So we don’t look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever. (New Living Translation)

Misconception about happiness:

▸ I must have ____________________________________

▸ I must be liked _________________________________

▸ Having more ___________________________________

1 Timothy 6:6-8 – 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. (New International Version)

2. Learn to adjust to _________________________________

Philippians 4:12 – . . . I have learned to be independent of circumstances . . . (New Berkeley Version)

Three types of circumstances:

1. Those I can control and ________________________

2. Those I can control and ________________________

3. Those I _____________________________________

Romans 12:18 – If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. (The Message)

3. Learn to draw on _________________________________

Philippians 4:13 – I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. (Amplified Bible)

2 Corinthians 12:9 – But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” . . . (Holman’s Christian Standard Bible)

4. Learn to trust God to ______________________________

Matthew 6:31-33 – 31 What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. 32 People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. 33 Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. (The Message)

Matthew 6:33 – But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (New King James Version)