Non-essentials. Philippians 4:12. “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound; everywhere and in all things, I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” Both prosperity and poverty can cause discontentment for those who view life through natural eyes rather than through faith. Being able to live happily and humbly at the same time depends on the choices I make and what I consider important in life. Living in prosperity can be humbling and satisfying when our focus is on eternal matters. Our contentment doesn’t rely on what we have or lack; it depends on our perspective. If we see our lives from God’s point of view, we will focus on what we are supposed to do and whether we do it. Most people's common point of view that leads to discontentment is centered on what we have or don’t have.
A grateful person will thank God for what they have received and will seek to honor God by using what we possess to fulfill His will. When we focus on our thoughts and live our lives centered on eternal things, temporary matters will become almost non-essential, except for “having food and clothing." The craving for more possessions and extraordinary experiences is a desire to fill an empty space in our souls. When our perspective, priorities, and strength come from God’s point of view, we will discover the secret of being content.
The times were tough; the cupboard was empty, and we had to eat the same meal every time until someone arrived with gifts. They brought something a little different from what we usually ate. It was a welcome change, but there was no reason to complain because we had “food and raiment.” God had His plans, and we were to fit into them whatever they were, but we certainly gave thanks in Jesus’ name for what He provided through the generous giving of one of His children.
The garden was abundant, and we had plenty of food stored for winter. We caught a lot of fish to dry and freeze, and the cellar was filled with good supplies. Hunger wasn’t an issue; we had enough to eat, and we understand that it’s not how much we have that makes us content, but rather what we do with what God has given us. He arranges everything in the best way possible until this life is over. Seeing life and service from God’s perspective helps me succeed in the work He has given me. He arranges things and expects my obedience so that everything works out for the best. When serving the needs of the poor, I should adapt to their way of life and, if possible, help in some way so they can see God’s true light and the path of salvation.
Reaching wealthy people with the Gospel is challenging, especially those who have everything but a restless mind. Hopefully, they will listen to someone on equal footing who can share what has met the needs of their inner person—someone who has everything but peace. When a wealthy Christian can explain the riches of God’s grace in a way that wealthy people understand, it may open the door for them to believe in Christ.
What I have or don’t have is not important; there is a lesson to learn. The frame of mind, the look on my face, and the things my heart yearns for are what people can sense when we stop to talk about what matters to me. I am instructed to adapt to them so they can see God’s interest in them. “I become all things to all men, that by any means I might save some.” The Divine Teacher can instruct me on how to act in each new situation; how to act when I’m full or empty, and how to handle deprivation. What is needed for me, the student learning to follow his Lord, is to be more concerned about what I do. That is far more important than what I have or hope to become. I must learn how to see things and take action from God’s perspective.