«l know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need”. (Philippians 4:12).
Imagine you are in there with them. It’s cold and so dark in that basement that you can’t see your own hands even if you put them in front of your face. You slowly rest your bloody back against the stone wall, waiting for the cold to sooth the pain of the lashes. Your feet are attached to stocks (two thick pieces of wood with holes that immobilize you and force you to stay in an uncomfortable position). But that’s not all! Imagine that the only reason you’re in the deepest cell of that Philippian prison is for preaching the gospel, for daring to heal a demon-possessed girl. You had a long, tiring day. You were attacked by an angry crowd, whipped, and handed over to the magistrates. What do you feel like doing after all this? Maybe cry in frustration? Complain? Paul and Silas did something amazing: at midnight, they began to pray and sing hymns.
The question is this: How is it possible that, after what had just happened and considering their circumstances, Paul and Silas had emotional energy to sing? The answer is simple, yet complex: they were satisfied. Contentment does not depend on changing our circumstances, but on the One who changes our hearts. It does not have to do with getting our husband, children, or co-workers to change, but to trust that, with Jesus, we can deal with everything.
In her article, «Contentment at all times,» Christian writer Patricia Namnun reflected, «When is my trust in God manifested? When my joy and security do not depend on my changing circumstances, but on the God who never changes and His sure promises. When, in the midst of each circumstance, I remember that God cares about us like a Father and nothing escapes His will . . . When I remember that this life is temporary and that a day will come when there will be no more pain, and our King Jesus will make all things new.»
Dear Jesus, I don’t know how to be happy! I’m not able to conform to my circumstances.
Sometimes I manage not to allow complaints from slipping away from my lips, but my heart continues to scream inside: «This is not fair!» I need Your help. I don’t want to become cynical, thinking nothing will ever get any better. I want to be content, knowing that You use all things for my good.
#WomensDevotional
#RadioJovenAdventista
#MeditacionesDiarias
Take From: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2022
«NO FEARS»
BY: VANEZA PISSUTO
Collaborators: Alexandra Pérez & Angelica Cuate.
