But truth is things aren't always perfect. In fact, they are far from it. Real life isn't full of the perfect pictures of a dinner that turned out fabulous, a perfect wedding, or even perfect children. What you don't see in between are the moments that aren't so picture perfect.
Social media doesn't show us the temper tantrum moments, the burned dinners, the heartache. Social media doesn't show us the moments where people are struggling because we don't like to post those. Those are the heartache moments of life.
If you were to look at my social media you'd see happy times but you'd see struggles as well. Now you won't see screaming children or messy kitchens, but you will see more than a perfect lifestyle. This is because I was taught to be authentic in who I am.
Social media doesn't show us the temper tantrum moments, the burned dinners, the heartache. Social media doesn't show us the moments where people are struggling because we don't like to post those. Those are the heartache moments of life.
If you were to look at my social media you'd see happy times but you'd see struggles as well. Now you won't see screaming children or messy kitchens, but you will see more than a perfect lifestyle. This is because I was taught to be authentic in who I am.
Contentment isn't easy when you are sitting with a bunch of debt, when you are in the middle of a messy marriage, when you are fighting a custody battle that is an uphill battle, or when you get a diagnosis that you didn't think you'd ever receive. Contentment is hard.
But in the Bible Paul talks about contentment in Philippians 4:11, "Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with what I have." Paul then says how he has learned the secret to living in every situation whether he has a full stomach or an empty one.
Ouch those are some pretty powerful words that Paul speaks, he then goes on to say, "For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength."Paul says later promises in Philippians 4:19, "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus."
Now it doesn't mean you'll get that brand new Chevy van, that you'll have the most luxurious home. It means that the Lord will take care of your needs.
I had this talk with my children a while back. What is a want and what is a need? The fact that you want to upgrade your Iphone to the latest version isn't a need, it's a want. The fact that you need to pay for food for the week. That is a need. I have seen miracles happen in my life as I have been faithful to the Lord with my finances. I often don't have enough to tithe but I will give just what I have to the Lord. He takes it, uses it, and always blesses my family. I encourage you today to stop trying to keep up with the Jones and TRUST the Lord.
Your heavenly Father has your BEST interests at heart. He wants to BLESS YOU!! He wants you to be content in your journey. True Contentment comes from knowing and following Jesus. This too shall pass is what a friend once told me one day you will laugh about this. You will have a story to tell, you'll be able to bless someone else who is going through what you are. You will see the other side.
It's really not easy and I won't say that it is. You can sit and have what my best friend calls a pity party for yourself. I've had plenty. But after you've had your pity party.
It's really not easy and I won't say that it is. You can sit and have what my best friend calls a pity party for yourself. I've had plenty. But after you've had your pity party.
These are the steps to take:
1. Pray - Give the Lord your situation. He knows your needs and loves you.
2. Make a plan. Sit with a piece of paper. Write out your blessings. Write out your gifts. Write out what the Lord has given you. As you see it unfold on paper, you will see the goodness of the Lord. Right before your very eyes.
3. Give thanks.
4. Bless someone else. Maybe you can't bless them financially but you have a service you can do for them. If they need help cleaning their home, you can do that. You can offer an encouraging word, you can offer to babysit their kids so they can have a date night.
You can be thankful for the people who are seeing prosperity and know the Lord has his Best for you. Just keep trusting in Him!!
I hope this has encouraged you today. Know that God loves you!!
I'd love to hear your comments and thoughts on contentment or even share what the Lord is doing in your life.
I'd love to hear your comments and thoughts on contentment or even share what the Lord is doing in your life.
Blessings,
Shawnee
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