Half Full or Half Empty?

Sometimes the Holy Spirit makes me painfully aware that I am sporting a bad attitude. That was the case one day when I realized I was discontent. I caught myself thinking I would be happier if only I had “this or that” or if only I didn’t have so much to do or if only . . . Well, you get the idea.

“My grace is sufficient for you,” God reminds me.

“But I need those things.”

“You have enough. I have given you what you need for right now.”

Last week city water was almost non-existent. In order to have enough for drinking and basic hygiene, we couldn’t do laundry for several days. Thursday morning the water finally came in and the power was on! I was able to get six loads of laundry done, fill the reservoirs, mop the floors, bake banana bread, and cook supper for our guests. That afternoon the water shut off again. During supper, the power went out. This time, the difference I noted was a positive one. Instead of feeling discouraged or discontent, we all remarked about how we had enjoyed electricity for a rare five days in a row, and we were grateful. My heart was content. And it felt great! At our evening prayers, we thanked Him for the clean home and clothing, the bountiful meal, new friends, and full water reservoirs.

Contentment isn’t natural. Paul the apostle also had to learn contentment, which actually makes me feel a little better. He even called it a secret.

…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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4: 12-13

I don’t think the secret Paul discovered was that God gave him strength. I think the secret Paul discovered was that God, the source of his strength, was enough.

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:25-26