Word Information
Word: Autarkes (Gk)
English: Content
Source: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon of the New Testament
Author: Joseph H. Thayer
"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength". Philippians 4:11-13
Definition
The word translated ‘content‘ in Philippians 4:11 is the Greek word ‘autarkes‘, meaning ‘contented with one’s lot, with one’s means, though the slenderest’.
Contentment is found in a state of heart that is grateful to God for life itself, and everything else, including the non-physical needs that He provides.
Practical Instruction
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6
This is a very straightforward instruction. As God’s children, we are meant to be content – not greedy for money or material possessions. We should receive our sustenance from God’s hands, not this world. You may say, “But how? God won’t come down from heaven and buy me breakfast or pay my bills, will He? We live in this world – not in the clouds!”
You’re sort of right, but not as right as we’d like to think.
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. Psalms 23:1
We may know Psalm 23 by heart, but have we committed this truth to our hearts? God is responsible for us. He knows what we need, and sometimes, we keep wanting what we don’t really need. We need the things that God gives us, including practical life classes on ‘abasing’ (having little) and ‘abounding’ (having more than enough).
He’s faithful – He’ll take care of us, whether we have a lot or a little.
Sizzling Sunday: 15th January 2023
Sizzling Sunday 023
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