Just Like Us 
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned to be content with whatever I have.  I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything.  I have learned the secret of living in every situation whether is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.”  Philippians 4:11-12 (NLT)    


People magazine, amongst other celebrity magazines, often shows a series of star photographs under the title “Stars, They’re Just Like Us.”  I have seen pictures of Britney Spears eating a hamburger, pictures of Madonna playing with her children in the park, and I think I remember once seeing some other star pumping his own gas.  Of course the rest of the magazine is filled with images from exclusive parties, advertisements of celebrities made up to the nines to promote handbags, makeup or watches, or with special looks at the inside of these stars’ homes.

 

“The grass is always greener on the side” is an old cliché, but there are times I am sure the grass is greener somewhere other than in my life.  I’m willing to bet you have watched the Oscar awards and thought, what if that was me?  Perhaps you’ve practiced your acceptance speech in the mirror as you brushed your teeth.  Maybe you haven’t gone that far, but just once to walk down that red carpet…

 

Paul encouraged a different type of existence.  He encouraged contentment – no matter the circumstances.  Whether you have a lot or a little, whether you are hungry or stuffed, Paul tells us that we can be content in any circumstance when we draw on the Lord for strength.  And remember, this is coming from a guy who spent a fair amount of time in jail, where I bet just about everyone’s grass seemed greener. 

 

Do you find yourself always wanting more than you have, or even a different life?  Do you find yourself wishing you had someone else’s life, kids, husband, car, kitchen, home, dog?  Stop.  God has you right where you need to be.  In fact, He may be trying to get you to stop looking elsewhere and look simply to Him.  God will supply all your needs in a way that is best for you.  If you are struggling with this, pray that the Lord would take these desires away and that you would be content whatever your circumstances.      

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GOING DEEPER:

1. Think through all the things you have recently told the Lord you need.  Reevaluate that list and weed out the things that are not needs, but actually wants, and now pray for your needs.   

2. How will being content change your attitude on life?

FURTHER READING:

Psalms 23:1; 2 Corinthians 11:9; Philippians 4:19


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