by Pastor Simon

I have come to learn, in the circumstances in which I am placed, to be independent of these and self-sufficient. I know in fact how to discipline myself in lowly circumstances. I know in fact how to conduct myself when I have more than enough.

Philippians 4:11-12 - NKJV

For a moment, reflect on Paul's words above. Do you spot that he had some knowledge we could all do with? He'd been through it all and learnt how to thrive whatever the condition he found himself in. How about you? What mark out of 10 would you give yourself for how you are getting on in the condition you find yourself in now?

Whatever score you give yourself you can improve it by taking a moment to think about the Christian journey. Some Christians end up pitching a tent in a valley of tears and others build a house in a place of plenty. Yet those who have set their hearts on pilgrimage lay no foundation on earthly circumstances. Paul considered his life hidden with Christ in God. This meant that as a result, he lived in a sphere of blessing that his relationship with God through Christ gave him. His blessing wasn't coming from this world's circumstance, those circumstances physically surrounding him, it was coming from God. This is available to you too. Col.3:2, Psa.84:5.

The Greek word for blessed is "makarios". The Greek scholar Spiros Zodhiates tells us makarios describes the person who is in the world but independent of the world, his satisfaction of needs (physical, emotional and spiritual) comes from God and not from favourable circumstances. How do you become a "makarios" person? You rest in, commune with and let yourself be nurtured by God. You look to Jesus and in Him you find contentment and blessing whether things are favourable or unfavourable. Mat.5:3-10.

Travel with your eyes on Jesus

Copyright © 2004 (revised 2009) P.F.(Simon)Measures

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