Pathways Press.com

MEDITATION:

Written by David Jeremiah, a contemporary pastor, speaker, and author.  This is an excerpt from his book “Where Do We Go From Here?”

Covetousness is subtle because it’s a condition within our own minds. It’s the invisible violation that no one else sees. You can have your act together on the outside, but inside you can be agonizing over, lusting after, and being consumed by the desire to have what someone else has. Coveting is a closeted spiritual crime that, if not checked, will eventually manifest itself externally. The writer of Hebrews told us how to replace coveting with contentment. The Greek word for contentment means “satisfied,” “adequate,” “competent,” or “sufficient.” The same term is used in 2 Corinthians 12:9, when God told Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you.”  Maybe you’re worried about this. You think to yourself, “I wasn’t born with contentment in my genes. I don’t feel satisfied with my life or even with my possessions. I often find myself wanting more.” Don’t let that bother you, because I have good news! According to Paul’s epistle to the church in Philippi, contentment is something we learn…Paul wasn’t born a saint. He didn’t come into the world with a vast reserve of contentment. Instead, he learned contentment through experience—including both comfort and hardship. He learned contentment by honestly evaluating the value of wealth versus the value of his connections to Christ. And he learned contentment through the continual influx and influence of God’s Spirit in his life. He seemed to be equally joyful staying in a friend’s villa or chained in a Roman cell. The same can be true for you.

PRAYER:

Written by Mary Southerland, a contemporary writer and speaker.

Father, I praise You today for all that You have done in my life. You are faithful even when I am faithless. Your love pursues me even when I am unlovable. Your forgiveness covers my sin and frees me from its penalty. I praise You for your love and faithfulness to me. Your presence in my life changes everything, empowering me to live each moment of every day, content in knowing You are in control. As I face today, Lord, remind me that no matter what happens, I can praise You! In Your Name, Amen.