Words of Wisdom

It is Wednesday, and time to find some wisdom to share.  Turning to my husband, I asked him, "What kind of wisdom can you think of for the Wednesday before Thanksgiving?"  His reply was two simple words, "Be happy."  Then he quoted the second half of a verse found in Philippians 4:

 

". . .for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am,

therein to be content."

~Philippians 4:11b

 

It is easy to be happy and content when life has been good to you.  We certainly have many blessings to count and much to be thankful for.  But what about those who find themselves in a less fortunate state, then what?

 

The word "whatsoever" is a more formal version of the word "whatever".  It is a word used to say, "no matter what".  It covers a lot of territory, both good and bad.  When Paul wrote this passage, he went on to clarify his position:

 

"I know what it is to be in need,

and I know what it is to have plenty.

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."

~Philippians 4:12

 

This chapter is one in which Paul asks his readers to rejoice in the Lord, not just on Sundays, but always.  He asks them to let their gentleness be evident, and also tells them not to be anxious.  He assures the promise of God's peace when requests are presented to God, with thanksgiving, by prayer and petition.

 

Another portion of the chapter encourages the proper kind of thinking needed to maintain this peace:

 

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things"

~Philippians 4:8

 

There will certainly be times when the circumstances of life cause us to question this philosophy of being content, joyful and focused on positive things.  It is then we must remember Paul's secret:

 

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"

~Philippians 4:13 

 

Suddenly, I'm finding myself very thankful for a husband who does his best to follow the advice of a man named Paul!