If we had to sum up Paul’s teaching in Phil 4:10-20, it would probably be to say that contentment or satisfaction can truly only be found in God. Anything else we crave tends to lead to temporary satisfaction; we are soon then off chasing after the wind. The writer of Ecclesiastes says, ‘I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.’ (Eccl 1:14) This has never been a popular saying, but all the material possessions in the world, all the happiest relationships, all the most fulfilling jobs ultimately do not fully satisfy, and it is a wise person who realises that contentment is found in God’s presence.
Aaron Shust’s song ‘Satisfy’ conveys the truth that ‘I find everything I need in You.’ Paul tells us we can know God’s full, rich blessing and provision: ‘My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:19) Many of us spend a lot of time trying to meet all our needs or trying to meet the needs of other people. No matter how good, kind, generous or rich we are, there will come a point when we run out of what is needed. The secret to living well, however, is knowing that God never runs out. There is no need we can have which He cannot meet.
Are you lonely? He can supply companionship.
Are you hungry? He can supply food.
Are you in need of work? He can find the right job for you.
Are you in need of healing? He can heal all your diseases.
Are you confused? He can bring clarity and guidance and direction.
Are you afraid? He can provide peace and courage.
In God, we find all the satisfaction which eludes us elsewhere.
