Steadfast Trust

The verses I am focused on today are from Philippians 4:11-13 NIV:

[11] "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] 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. [13] I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

These verses are such an insight into Paul's place of trust in the Lord, and his relationship with God. He recognized that circumstances were not a reflection on his relationship with God. So often we think that either our blessing in a situation or our problems we encounter are indicators of God's pleasure or displeasure with us. That type of thinking is relatively immature and typical of someone who doesn't fully understand the person with who they are in relationship, as in a child to parent relationship. Imagine if Paul had thought that only bad things happen to bad people, or to people God was displeased with, what would he have thought when he was beaten or flogged, or shipwrecked?

Paul recognized that God's love for him was constant whether he was experiencing awesome results, or if he was being escorted in chains. The secret he mentions can be no other thing than his intimate relationship with the Lord, which was unaffected, and ever growing more deep. He understood his value in the Lord's eyes and was unaffected by the changing circumstances around him. Instead he rested in the Lord and let the Lord show Himself strong in desperate situations, and reveled in His love and provision when situations were good.

Let us throw off this immature view of God and pray for the steadfastness of heart and mind that Paul experienced and expressed here. Lord, help us to grow and mature into people who really walk in deep relationship with You. Let us be steadfast in our trust of the Lord.