Introduction:
A. Only four million?
B. A world of discontent
C. We must live a life of contentment (Ph. 4:10-13).
I. Contentment is not dependent on circumstances.
A. “Green pastures” contentment (Ps. 23:2; Ph. 4:10-13)
B. Why did Paul “rejoice in the Lord greatly” when he received the gift?
C. “A good text for hard times” (Prov. 30:8-9; Rev. 3:17)
II. Contentment is a learned disposition.
A. Paul learned to be content (Ph. 4:11, 12; 2 Cor. 11:24-27).
B. The Stoics’ pursuit of contentment
C. We must learn contentment.
III. Contentment is the product of hidden resources.
A. Contentment must be produced from within (Ph. 4:13).
B. From what source do you draw strength?
C. The Vine and the Branches (Jn. 15:1-5 cf. Ph. 4:13)
Conclusion:
A. Contentment is independent of circumstances (Ph. 3:20; 1 Tim. 6:7-8).
B. Contentment is a learned disposition.
C. Look to Christ as your hidden resource of streng