Seated in heavenly places: Contentment through the storm

 ... for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:11-13

It's hard to be content, when money is tight and the bills are due, or we have a million things to get done and our bodies decide it's time to be sick, or when people reject us, relationships end, jobs are lost, loved ones die, or the car gives up the ghost.

One of the favorite things I've heard at my church is the phrase BUT...God. I may not know where the money for the bills is going to come from BUT God said in his word that he will supply all my needs according to his riches in glory (Philippians 4:19), and God keeps his word. I may be worried and anxious about my health or my current circumstances BUT God said through his beloved son not to be anxious for anything, but in all things come to him in prayer (Philippians 4:6), and seek his kingdom first, and everything I need and desire will be added to me (Matthew 6:31-33). I may be facing heartache and loss and my whole world may be turned upside down BUT God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), he heals them and binds up every wound (Psalm 147:3). And when the cares of my heart are many, he comes to reassure and console (Psalm 94:19).

He is Emmanuel, God is with us. And he really lives up to that name. When you get the knowledge of his presence, deep down in your heart, it will bring you contentment, even in the midst of a raging storm that's rocking every single part of your world. He sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24), he never leaves us, never forsakes us (Hebrews 13:5), never disappoints, he always has time for us. And not only does he stay right by your side, but he works everything, good, bad, and in between, for your good. He turns your ugly, raging storm into still waters (Psalm 23). It may not happen over night, or when you really want it to, but as you wait on him and draw near to him, he will draw near to you (James 4:8) and bless you with contentment, peace, joy and comfort, because he turns every circumstance, no matter how ugly it is, into a heavenly place (Ephesians 2:6).