Whatever My Lot
Rev. Jarrett Washington, 7th Episcopal District
10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 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.
Philippians 4:10-12
I am at a point in my life where I have learned to be content in all things. The truth is getting to this place has not been easy, but I declare it has been necessary for my spiritual growth and maturation. The very hurts, pains, rejections, and times of desperate need were the necessary preparation for the place I find myself. Yes, I have been afforded great privileges and extraordinary favor; however, I am keenly aware of the fact that every thing I’ve achieved, or I will ever attain is because of the hand of God and not the decision of man/woman. One of life’s greatest lessons is that people will fail you. One day the hands of support will be no where to be found and you will be left with a decision. Do you go forward? Or do you fall back? My greatest hope and desire is that you push forward, realizing that whatever your lot, it remains well.
In reading Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi the reader is exposed to a man of God who wanted to share with the church a guide to ordinary living. Sometimes we try to be so deep, so esoteric, and theologically eloquent that we miss the message in just living for Christ. Let’s call a thing-a-thing: sometimes the best thing you can do is simply live so God can use you, nothing more and certainly, nothing less. In this letter Paul proclaims the victory every believer can have if they learn the appropriate response to their problems. The recurring theme of this text can be illustrated in two words, “joy” and “rejoicing” despite your circumstances.
The idea of remaining well is uplifted in Philippians 4. Paul explains to the reader how grateful he is for their concern, even when they have no ability to show it. I am strong believer there are many somebodies concerned about me. Yet and still, even if I never hear it personally; or if I never get the text; or if the phone never rings; or the email never comes, I know someone had a concern. Furthermore, my ability to be content is shaped by my dependence on God. Whether wealthy or rich, destitute or in the overflow, I have learned how to be content because God is always there with me and for me. So today, whatever your lot is (or isn’t) be content. Rise above every circumstance, trick, and trial because whatever is happening around you does not determine what’s being birthed in you!
Have an amazing day,
Pastor Jarrett Britton Washington
