Praying for Contentment – Day 22 of 31 Days of Prayer –

PRAY OCTOBER – 31 Days of Prayer, Scripture Readings, Devotions to draw us closer to God.

Day 22: Prayer for Contentment

Scripture: Philippians 4:11-12 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.

Our prayer focus for today is contentment. What does contentment mean? Is it the desire to realize that we have everything we need or the desire for more?

Websters 1828 dictionary describes contentment as “Rest or quietness of the mind in the present condition; satisfaction which holds the mind in peace, restraining complaint, opposition, or further desire, and often implying a moderate degree of happiness.” The description is described in Interpreter’s Bible Dictionary as : “The acceptance of ‘things as they are’ as the wise and loving providence of a God who knows what is good for us, who so loves us as always to seek our good”

This morning and I am experiencing the truest sense of contentment from my cat Mabel. Mabel is in her normal position on my lap, purring very loudly. We don’t often realize that a cat’s purring is an involuntary response to contentment. I do believe that Mabel can control her purring and contentment as we have also seen exhibited in her attitude and actions. Wait a minute – am I describing Mabel or us as people. Though we don’t have an involuntary reaction to purring like a cat, we do show it in our countenance.

We should strive for a holy contentment. Content with what God is desiring to do in our lives. Content with being at the center of God’s will whether that be of need or of plenty. Content with what God is calling us to. Content in all seasons and situations. The slippery slope is to not be consumed with what evil says is contentment and drawn away into a worldly view of contentment.

I will say, I am praying for a holy sense of contentment. Praying it over my life, I desire that and long for it. Praying it over my loved ones. Praying it over the church. Praying it over my business.

Praying it over the community, the state, the nation, the world. Praying that it become a holy way of life. Will it happen? Someday! Either when we move into it and choose to be content in all circumstances so the good and perfect will of God can play out or when Jesus returns !

Prayer: Lord, teach me to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself, whether in need or in plenty. Praying for a holy contentment in Jesus name – Amen