To Be Happy and Content

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  Philippians 4:11

The last several months we have been talking about Moses in the first grade Sunday school that I help teach.  One of the lessons has really stuck with me.

I'm sure I'm not the only one that has wished things to be different.  Different clothes.  Different job.  Maybe you just wish things wouldn't feel like they are always falling a part. 

Moses had been leading the people through the wilderness.  The Israelites despite having survived being slaves for so many years and making it through the Red Sea with God's help weren't happy now.  They somehow felt like they were worse off.  I think it came down to the fact that they were tired, hungry and wanted answers about where they were headed.

Moses and Aaron prayed to God and told the people that every night he would give them all meat to eat and every morning he would give them bread to eat.  Moses told the people that God said to only get enough to eat for that day, they weren't to have any food leftover.  Being human, they do what most humans do, worry.  They didn't listen and they tried to save some for the next day.  Because they didn't listen to God the manna or bread they had spoiled.  After that they listened to God.  The day before the Sabboth God did let them store food for the next day.  This way on the Sabboth they could rest.  Exodus 16:1-35

For 40 years things continued like this.  God took care of them.  God will always take care of us.  It is a hard thing to do but I have tried to change the way that I look at what is going on around me.  It is instinct to worry about every little thing and wonder how and when something is going to work out.  I have felt kind of like a weight was lifted and little happier. 

I know that my problems and worries are still there but I know that God will take care of things.  I am looking at what I do have around me that isn't a problem and finding the good in that.  If you do that you could be surprised with how long your list becomes.

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious rices in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:19